If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s essential to know that help is available — and you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, suicidal, or are supporting someone in distress, there are trained professionals and organisations ready to support you.
Get Urgent Mental Health Help
If you’re in crisis and need immediate support, call 0800 456 789 toll-free to reach the Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24/7. This service is run by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG).
You can also reach out via SMS at 31393, or WhatsApp SADAG on 087 163 2030 (Monday to Sunday, 8am–5pm) for free support and advice.
If someone’s life is in danger — whether they have harmed themselves or are at risk of doing so — call 10111 for emergency services or go to your nearest hospital emergency room immediately.
Speak to a GP or Mental Health Professional
If your situation is not immediately life-threatening but you need help:
- Visit your local clinic or general practitioner (GP). They can provide an initial assessment and refer you to mental health services, including psychologists, psychiatrists, or social workers.
- Many public hospitals have psychiatric units or can provide a referral to one.
- You can also ask your GP for help in creating a mental health treatment plan or safety plan.
Free and Confidential Support Services
There are several helplines and listening services offering confidential support, even if you’re not sure what you’re going through:
1. SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group)
- 0800 567 567 (24/7 helpline)
- SMS 31393 (messages are free)
- www.sadag.org
2. Childline South Africa (for children and teens)
- 0800 055 555
- Available 24/7 for children in distress or those who need someone to talk to.
3. Lifeline South Africa
- 0861 322 322
- Offers support for emotional distress, trauma, and suicidal thoughts.
These services are free, confidential, and open to anyone, regardless of age, background, or situation.
If You’re in Crisis But Not in Immediate Danger
Sometimes you may not need emergency care, but you still need support getting through a difficult moment. There are tools and resources that can help you manage anxiety, panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, or feelings of hopelessness.
Visit SADAG’s website for:
- Breathing and calming techniques
- Step-by-step guides on what to do in a crisis
- Access to WhatsApp counselling
Staying Safe (UK-based, but globally helpful)
- Offers free templates and videos on how to build a mental health safety plan: www.stayingsafe.net
In Case of Emergency: Call 10111 or Go to Hospital
Mental health emergencies are real emergencies. If:
- You or someone you know has seriously harmed themselves
- You feel you cannot keep yourself or someone else safe
👉 Call 10111 (South African Police Service) or
👉 Go to the nearest hospital emergency department
Hospital staff are trained to treat both physical and mental health emergencies. You may be referred to a psychiatry unit, crisis team, or inpatient care depending on your needs.
What Happens in Emergency Mental Health Care?
At the hospital, you’ll be assessed by a nurse or doctor. If they believe you need specialised mental health care, they may refer you to a:
- Psychiatrist or clinical psychologist
- Crisis resolution team (depending on the province)
- Public mental health facility
They may also create a treatment plan and help you access community-based services for follow-up care.
Planning Ahead: Make a Mental Health Safety Plan
Whether you’ve had suicidal thoughts, overwhelming anxiety, or just want to be prepared, creating a safety plan can be life-saving.
- Use www.stayingsafe.net to create a personalised safety plan
- Include warning signs, coping tools, support contacts, and emergency numbers
- You can also ask your GP, therapist, or a trusted person to help you make one
Living with mental health challenges can feel isolating, but help is out there. South Africa has a growing number of support services, and even if you don’t know where to start, reaching out to just one helpline can open the door to support, care, and hope.
👉 Next: National and Provincial Mental Health Helplines in South Africa
Reviewed April 2025. Always consult a professional for individual guidance.
The Mind Space Counsellor Randburg
Claremont Chiropractic Health Centre Claremont
