Bullying and Suicide

The incidence of school bullying, depression and even suicide have been aired in Cape Town media in the last week with the suicide of a 14 year old child, sadly from my old junior school. It seems that he had learning difficulties and instead of being supported with creative learning aids, he was mocked and bullied, not only by his peers, but also by his teachers.

It ended tragically with him committing suicide.

This is not unusual in countries like Japan where extremely high achievement is expected but the fact the it happens here in an emerging economy like South Africa highlights the problem of self-esteem and how we are judged by our peers based on social media, advertising and television.

All the more so for parents to be far more in touch with the moods of their children and to be very aware of subtle changes which could indicate emotional issues.

It is essential to deal with these issues at the outset and to seek professional help. Unfortunately this did not seem to be forthcoming from his teachers.

See the full article: http://dailyzen.co.uk/2016/09/14/school-bullying-suicide/