Hope, open conversations and stronger support systems can help save lives. This was the message as health professionals gathered at the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU) to mark Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness Day on 10 September 2026.
Held under the theme “Changing the narrative on suicide”, the event brought together social workers, nurses and psychologists. They discussed ways to prevent suicide, reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek support when they need it.
Refiloe Legodi organised the event with colleagues from the School of Psychosocial Health and the Lifestyle Diseases research entity. The programme aimed to create a safe space for meaningful conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.
Speakers from Social Work, Nursing and Psychology discussed early intervention and the importance of recognising warning signs. They also highlighted the need for strong support systems and environments where individuals feel safe to ask for help.
The programme showed that suicide prevention requires different professions and communities to work together. Mental health challenges are complex and often require support from more than one professional field.
A key feature of the event was the Circle of Resilience, facilitated by Refiloe. Participants reflected on their experiences and identified sources of personal and collective strength. The activity encouraged participants to see resilience as something that can grow through relationships, community support, hope and access to professional assistance.
“Resilience does not mean facing challenges alone,” was a central message of the activity. Supportive relationships and a sense of belonging can help individuals cope during difficult periods. The programme also encouraged a shift away from discussing suicide only when individuals are already in crisis. Instead, prevention should include creating communities where individuals feel heard, valued and supported.
The 2026 theme called for conversations that focus not only on crisis and loss, but also on prevention, healing, hope and resilience. It also challenged the stigma that can prevent individuals from talking openly about mental health or seeking assistance.
The event ended with social workers, nurses and psychologists taking a collective pledge. They committed themselves to promoting hope, strengthening resilience and supporting mental well-being in their communities. The pledge reinforced the message that awareness alone is not enough. Suicide prevention also requires action, compassion and sustained support.
Through the gathering, the NWU highlighted the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing mental health challenges and creating communities in which individuals know they do not have to face difficult times alone.
Photo: Staff members from the Faculty of Health Sciences attending the Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness Day.
