Why Teen Suicide Is Rising — and How Early Counselling Makes a Difference

Adolescence is a period of intense emotional, physical, and psychological change. Unfortunately, more teens today are finding it increasingly difficult to cope with these pressures, leading to an alarming rise in teen suicide rates across South Africa and globally.

At Mental Health Benoni, Laurika Lubbe, a compassionate and experienced counselling psychologist, offers Therapy for Teens in Northmead designed to provide early support, guidance, and a safe space for adolescents to express their pain and begin healing.

Understanding the Alarming Increase in Teen Suicide

Teen suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people. While every case is unique, several recurring factors contribute to this growing crisis:

  • Academic and social pressure: The stress of achieving high marks and fitting in can feel overwhelming.

  • Social media and comparison: Constant exposure to curated lives can intensify feelings of inadequacy and isolation.

  • Family conflict or instability: Difficult home environments can leave teens feeling unsafe or unsupported.

  • Bullying and peer rejection: Both in-person and online harassment can severely damage a young person’s sense of worth.

  • Undiagnosed mental health conditions: Depression, anxiety, or trauma often go unnoticed or untreated.

Recognizing the early warning signs—such as withdrawal, hopelessness, or self-destructive behaviour—is crucial. Early Therapy for Teens in Northmead can make the difference between silent suffering and meaningful recovery.Why Early Counselling Can Change a Teen’s Future

Early intervention gives teens the tools they need to manage distress before it escalates. Counselling psychology focuses on understanding each individual’s emotional world and building resilience through empathy, trust, and collaboration.

In therapy with Laurika Lubbe, teens learn to:

  1. Identify and express emotions in healthy ways.

  2. Develop coping skills for stress, anxiety, and peer challenges.

  3. Rebuild self-esteem and confidence.

  4. Foster healthy communication within family relationships.

  5. Regain hope and motivation for the future.

The earlier a teen begins therapy, the easier it becomes to reverse harmful thought patterns and prevent long-term emotional distress.

The Role of Parents and Caregivers

Parents often struggle to know when or how to intervene. Common signs your teen may need professional help include:

  • Sudden changes in sleep or eating habits

  • Declining school performance

  • Isolation from friends or family

  • Expressions of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness

  • Interest in death or self-harm

If these signs sound familiar, reaching out for Therapy for Teens in Northmead can help your child receive the support they desperately need in a non-judgmental, caring environment.

How Laurika Lubbe at Mental Health Benoni Can Help

Laurika Lubbe is a trusted counselling psychologist in Benoni with extensive experience working with adolescents. She provides a safe, confidential space where teens can feel heard and understood.

Her approach is:

  • Empathetic and collaborativebuilding trust at a pace that feels comfortable.

  • Evidence-based — using proven therapeutic techniques tailored to each teen’s needs.

  • Holistic — considering emotional, social, and family dynamics together.

At Mental Health Benoni, therapy sessions focus on emotional growth, self-awareness, and developing coping strategies that empower teens to take back control of their lives.

Building a Brighter Path Forward

The rise in teen suicide is a collective concern that demands compassion and early intervention. No teenager should face their pain alone, and no parent should feel helpless watching their child struggle.

Through Therapy for Teens in Northmead, Laurika Lubbe helps young people rediscover hope, meaning, and the belief that their future holds possibility. Early counselling doesn’t just save lives—it builds stronger, healthier, more resilient young adults.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

If your teen is showing signs of emotional distress, don’t wait. Reach out today to Mental Health Benoni and schedule an appointment with Laurika Lubbe. Early therapy can make all the difference in helping your teen navigate life’s challenges with strength and confidence.

Contact Mental Health Benoni today to learn more about Therapy for Teens in Northmead and begin the journey toward recovery and wellbeing.

Call us Now