a day ago
Man rescued from Grey Avenue bridge in dramatic N3 incident in Ekurhuleni
A dramatic incident brought traffic to a standstill on the N3 after a man threatened to jump from the Grey Avenue bridge into oncoming traffic on Wednesday.
Alberton Record reports that shortly before 17:00, motorists reported seeing an individual perched on the edge of the bridge, poised to hurl himself into the fast-moving N3 lanes.
Traffic police immediately halted vehicle flow and diverted motorists to alternative routes. The disruption left commuters stranded for hours as authorities worked to secure the scene.
Emergency responders, including negotiators and mental health-trained paramedics, quickly attended and initiated a sensitive and professional negotiation process. After several tense minutes, they successfully convinced the man to step back and escorted him to safety.
Community and expert reaction
Alberton Record spoke to Dr Frans Korb, psychiatrist, clinical psychologist and South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) board member, about the critical importance of recognising and addressing suicidal thoughts, especially among men, while aligning his insights with SADAG's mission and June's designation as Men's Health Month.
Korb emphasised that when suicidal ideation emerges, no matter how justified or overwhelming one's situation feels, seeking professional support promptly can be life-saving. He explained that men often interpret these thoughts as a personal failure or weakness, but intervention can halt escalation and open pathways to recovery.
'Stigma is the principal obstacle. Men are taught to be the strongest, to never show vulnerability. This societal expectation frequently leads to denial and isolation. Other factors include fear of being perceived as weak, lack of awareness about mental health resources, and difficulties navigating the support system,' Korb said.
He urged normalising mental health conversations and increasing visibility of male-friendly support channels, such as SADAG's helplines and support groups. Campaigns highlighting role models who have sought help can also dismantle harmful stereotypes.
Immediate steps in acute crises
When a loved one or bystander confronts someone in crisis, Dr Korb recommends:
Approaching calmly and avoiding confrontation
Listening empathetically, acknowledging their pain without judgement
Reassuring them that help is available and staying with them until professionals arrive
Contacting emergency services immediately
After the acute incident, encourage them to connect with support services like SADAG.
SADAG's role and ethical mission
SADAG's vision is a South Africa where mental illness is acknowledged and accessible help is available when needed.
Its services include:
Running 24/7 helplines (SMS: 31393, WhatsApp: 087 163 2030)
Facilitating over 170 free support groups, including specialised male-only spaces to encourage openness and healing
Developing stigma-busting campaigns and community outreach to normalise help-seeking behaviour
During June's focus on men's health, SADAG advocates targeted messaging underscoring that asking for help is not weakness but courage.
The bigger picture: Statistics and stigma
South Africa ranks 10th globally for suicide rates, with men being five times more likely to die by suicide than women. Korb emphasised that stigma is the silent killer.
'What kills most men is the stigma that they should always be the strongest,' he said. Breaking this narrative and encouraging empathy can reduce barriers to help-seeking.
Tips for those having suicidal thoughts
Reach out immediately to a friend, counsellor or helpline, no matter how small the risk feels.
Remind yourself that thoughts are not facts; help is real and effective.
Understand that vulnerability is human, not shameful.
Keep helpline numbers where you can see them, including SADAG's Lifeline or your family doctor.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact:
24/7 Suicide Crisis Line: 080 056 7567
SADAG SMS Helpline: 31393
WhatsApp: 087 163 2030
'Your life matters. Please talk,' Korb concluded.
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