Concern over rising suicide attempts among teenagers has led the City of Cape Town to bolster its mental health and suicide prevention response.
The City reports that 24 children under the age of 18 were treated for suicide attempts in the 2024/2025 financial year, compared to 18 in the previous year.
Mayoral Committee Member for Community Safety and Health, Franchine Higham, says mental health screening for under-18s increased significantly, from 417 in 2023/2024 to 2048 in 2024/2025.
“Mental health visits for children and adolescents increased from 391 to 520 over the same period. Among adults, suicide attempts increased significantly from 50 to 139 cases, reinforcing the link between caregiver wellbeing and child mental health.”
Higham emphasised the importance of awareness programmes, stressing that they help reduce the stigma around mental health challenges and encourage young people to seek help timeously.
“Protecting our children’s mental health requires everyone to work together. When we care early, we prevent crisis later. Behind every number is a young person who is struggling and a family that is hurting. Teen suicide is not just a health issue, it is a societal issue that demands compassion, vigilance, and collective action.”
Strengthening prevention through school-based awareness
The City has embarked on a school awareness drive to promote teen mental health and suicide prevention. Higham says the programme focuses on not only providing support to those affected, but also addressing underlying challenges.
Help is available
Anyone experiencing emotional distress, or who knows someone in need of support, is encouraged to visit their nearest City Health facility or seek urgent assistance through emergency services.
