Ebenhaezer Dibakwane’s death sparks movement to share mental health struggles

The death of Ebenhaezer Dibakwane has sparked a fresh conversation about mental health struggles, and social media users have shared their own difficulties in an effort to break stigmas about depression.

The comedian, actor and writer died on March 7. A statement shared with TshisaLIVE by the family revealed preliminary evidence suggested he took his own life.

Details about his death have not been made public but users took to social media to share his comments about struggling with depression and having made attempts to take his own life. 

“I am a sad [person], I'm a depressed person. Tried suicide and failed at that too," Eben said during his sit down with Lwazi Tha Mc. 

Comedian Trevor Gumbi took to his timeline to share details about the depression hotline.

“Comedians go through a lot of sad episodes but you all think it's just a joke. Hade [sorry] Eben.”

• If you or someone you know struggles with depression, feeling suicidal or talking about ending their life, speak to a mental health professional or contact the suicide helpline, 0800 567 567, Cipla Helpline 0800 456 789, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or SMS 31393.