South African Depression and Anxiety Group (GBV support lines)

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SADAG — the South African Depression and Anxiety Group — is Africa's largest mental health support and advocacy organisation, founded in Johannesburg in 1994 by Zane Wilson. What began as a small support group for people living with panic disorder has grown into a national organisation running over 30 helplines, more than 180 free support groups, an extensive country-wide referral network, school and rural outreach programmes, and a 15-line counselling call centre open 7 days a week. During the COVID-19 national lockdown, SADAG received over 500,000 calls for assistance — including more than 100,000 calls to the suicide helpline alone.

SADAG's mission is straightforward: to make mental health matter in South Africa, and to ensure that no one — regardless of where they live or what they can afford — is denied access to emotional support. Their services are relevant to every survivor on this site, because trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts are all common consequences of GBV and sexual abuse — and all of these are conditions SADAG is equipped to support.

What They Offer Survivors

Free National Counselling Line — 0800 20 50 26 (Toll-Free, 8am–8pm) SADAG's primary counselling line is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year from 8am to 8pm — free from any network. Trained counsellors provide immediate emotional support, referrals to psychologists, psychiatrists, GPs, support groups, and crisis services. This is the front door to mental health support in South Africa for anyone who cannot afford private therapy.

24-Hour Suicide Crisis Line — 0800 567 567 (Toll-Free) South Africa's only dedicated 24-hour suicide crisis line, operated by SADAG, is available free around the clock. If you are having thoughts of suicide — as a survivor or for any other reason — this line is for you. You can also SMS 31393.

Over 180 Free Support Groups — Nationwide SADAG facilitates more than 180 free peer support groups across South Africa, covering depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and more — in both urban centres and rural communities. Many survivors find that connecting with others who understand their experience is a crucial part of healing. Visit the website or call to find a group near you.

Callback Service If calling feels too difficult, SADAG's website offers a callback request form — a trained counsellor will phone you back at a time you choose.

School-Based Suicide and Mental Health Programmes SADAG has delivered suicide prevention and mental health awareness presentations to over 1 million school learners across South Africa — helping young survivors understand their emotions and know where to turn.

Rural and Community Outreach SADAG's Diepsloot Container Counselling Centre and broader rural outreach initiatives bring free counselling, referrals, and mental health awareness to communities far from any formal mental health service.

Substance Abuse Support The Ke Moja substance abuse line (087 163 2025) is specifically for those dealing with alcohol and drug dependency — an issue frequently intertwined with both experiencing and perpetrating GBV.

Online Support Groups (2025) New online support groups targeting educators experiencing burnout, young adults, and people with disabilities were launched in 2025 — expanding access for those who cannot attend in-person groups.

SADAG is available to every person in South Africa. Call the free counselling line anytime between 8am and 8pm: 0800 20 50 26. For a 24-hour crisis, call 0800 567 567.

Office (8am–5pm, Mon–Fri): 011 234 4837 Counselling Line (8am–8pm, 7 days): 0800 20 50 26 (toll-free) Suicide Crisis Line (24/7): 0800 567 567 (toll-free) | SMS: 31393 Cipla Mental Health Line: 076 882 2775 Maybelline BraveTogether: 087 163 2030 Ke Moja Substance Abuse Line: 087 163 2025 Police & Trauma Helpline: 0800 20 50 26 (8am–8pm)