By Haylee Maduray
An expert has urged people struggling with suicidal thoughts to reach out for help after a 21-year-old male committed suicide by jumping off a bridge in Durban.
The deceased, who was later identified as Nickeel Gokul from Chatsworth reportedly jumped off the M19 bridge onto the N2 near the Umgeni Interchange on Saturday, 20 September.
Emergency service KZN VIP said its control centre received multiple reports through social media about the incident and immediately dispatched tactical officers and medical teams.
“Upon arrival, officers were informed by members of the public that a black TSI VW Polo had pulled over near the bridge, and a male exited the vehicle before climbing onto the ledge. Moments later, the individual jumped off, as per witnesses who attempted to stop him,” KZN VIP said.
Unfortunately, after assessing the individual, paramedics declared him dead.
Although the circumstances behind the 21-year-old’s alleged suicide remain unknown, he has been described by family members and friends as a gentle soul who often reached out to help others. Moreover, this tragic loss of a young life has emphasised the importance of mental health awareness.
According to Netcare Akeso in Umhlanga, suicide is the fourth leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 24 in the country.
Crisis Line Manager at Netcare Akeso Megan Gonsalves, said behind every statistic is a person, as well as their family and community. Suicide is not an isolated problem, even though it may feel extremely alienating for the person struggling.
Recently, experts have also stressed the importance of having open conversations about mental health in homes, in places of work and within the community to develop professional support like therapy and coping mechanisms skills.
Echoing the same sentiments, Gonsalves urged people struggling with suicidal thoughts to reach out, emphasising: “It might seem like no one understands or that there is no way forward, but this is not the end of the road.”
For urgent help, contact Netcare Akeso which operates a 24-hour crisis line on 0861435 787, while the South African Anxiety and Depression Group (SADAG) provides support on 0800 567 567.
