A disturbing number of suicides among school learners and staff underscores the critical need for robust mental health support in schools. Anxiety, depression, bullying and online abuse are fuelling the trend, with experts calling for immediate intervention.

Listen to this article 9 min Listen to this article 9 min Warning: This article discusses cases of children who have died by suicide and are at risk of suicide.

Annually, one in 10 teenage deaths in South Africa is the result of suicide.

"This statistic aligns with research indicating that suicide is a leading cause of death among adolescents in South Africa, second only to motor vehicle accidents in the 15-24 year age group," said South African Society of Psychiatrists secretary Dr Alicia Porter.

"Studies have shown that suicide accounts for around 9% of teenage deaths, making it a significant public health concern."

Up to 20% of high school learners have tried to take their own lives.

"This is a concerning figure and points to a broader mental health crisis among the youth, with stressors like bullying, academic pressure, family dynamics, and socioeconomic challenges contributing to the high rates," Porter said.

"Statistics on learner suicides are troubling. While it is difficult to get precise numbers, reports suggest that about 23.5% of South African youth have experienced suicidal ideation."

The latest concerns over learners at risk of suicide stem from several recent deaths, including the death of a 14-year-old...