Mental Health Resources in South Africa
Mental health is an essential part of overall health. South Africa has a range of support services, from 24-hour crisis helplines to public mental health clinics and hospital psychiatric units. Whether you are in crisis or seeking ongoing support, help is available.
If someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, call 10111 (police) or 10177 (ambulance) immediately.
Crisis Helplines
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or crisis, contact one of these helplines. All are free to call.
| Organisation | Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| SADAG (SA Depression and Anxiety Group) | 0800 456 789 | 24 hours, 7 days |
| Life Line South Africa | 0861 322 322 | 24 hours, 7 days |
| Suicide Crisis Line | 0800 567 567 | 24 hours, 7 days |
| Substance Abuse Helpline | 0800 12 13 14 | 24 hours, 7 days |
| Gender-Based Violence Command Centre | 0800 428 428 | 24 hours, 7 days |
SADAG: South African Depression and Anxiety Group
SADAG is South Africa's largest mental health support group. It operates a free 24-hour helpline staffed by trained counsellors. SADAG provides support for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, suicide prevention, and more.
SADAG also runs support groups across the country and provides resources for caregivers, health professionals, and schools. Visit www.sadag.org for information, self-help resources, and to find a group near you.
- 24-hour helpline: 0800 456 789
- SMS line: 31393 (reply with your name and query)
- Website: www.sadag.org
- WhatsApp: 0800 456 789
Public Mental Health Services
Mental health care is available through the public health system. Access is through your local clinic or community health centre. If specialist psychiatric care is needed, you will be referred.
Services available in the public system include:
- Mental health screening and counselling at public clinics
- Community-based mental health services through NGOs and provincial health departments
- Outpatient psychiatric services at district and regional hospitals
- Inpatient psychiatric units at certain public hospitals
- Specialised psychiatric hospitals (e.g., Valkenberg, Weskoppies, Fort Napier)
The Mental Health Care Act
The Mental Health Care Act (Act 17 of 2002) governs mental health care in South Africa. It protects the rights of people with mental illness, including the right to dignity, the right to be informed, and the right to participate in treatment decisions.
Involuntary admission (when a person is admitted without consent) is tightly regulated and requires a court order or the opinion of two mental health care practitioners.
Children and Adolescent Mental Health
Children and teenagers also experience mental health difficulties. If you are concerned about a young person, contact SADAG which has a dedicated youth helpline, or speak to a school counsellor or the child's clinic.
The Department of Basic Education also has a support programme for learners experiencing mental health or psychosocial difficulties.
- SADAG youth helpline: 0800 456 789
- Childline: 116 (free from any phone)
- Speak to the school social worker or counsellor
- Visit the nearest public clinic and ask for a referral to child and adolescent mental health services
Substance Abuse Support
The South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) provides treatment, counselling, and prevention programmes. Contact the national substance abuse helpline for referrals to local services.
Public treatment centres operated by provincial health departments also provide detoxification and rehabilitation services.
- Substance Abuse Helpline: 0800 12 13 14 (24 hours, free)
- SANCA website: www.sanca.co.za
- Ask your clinic for a referral to a substance abuse treatment centre