SADAG and crisis lines in SA

Knowing where to turn in a hard moment can make all the difference. South Africa has free, confidential support lines staffed by trained counsellors, day and night.

What it is

Crisis lines are telephone or SMS services you can contact when things feel too much to carry alone. You don't need a diagnosis or a "good enough" reason to call. Feeling overwhelmed, scared, or unsafe is reason enough. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) runs the country's main network of these lines, alongside emergency services for physical danger.

Signs to notice

It helps to reach out when you notice:

• Thoughts of ending your life, or that life isn't worth living.
• Feeling trapped, like there's no way out of a problem.
• A loved one saying goodbye, giving away possessions, or withdrawing suddenly.
• Overwhelming grief, panic, or a crisis you can't manage alone.
• Needing someone to simply listen without judgement, right now.

What helps

• Save these numbers in your phone today, before you need them: SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline 0800 567 567 (24 hours) or SMS 31393 and a counsellor will call you back.
• Use SADAG's Mental Health Line, 011 234 4837, for ongoing support and referrals to counsellors or support groups.
• If someone is in immediate physical danger, call SAPS on 10111 or an ambulance on 10177.
• If gender-based violence is part of the crisis, the GBV Command Centre on 0800 428 428 offers 24-hour support and can arrange help on the ground.
• Share these numbers with family, friends, and colleagues. You never know who might need them.
• Remember that calling is a sign of strength, not weakness. Trained counsellors want to hear from you.

When to reach out for help

Reach out immediately if you or someone else is thinking about suicide, has a plan or means to harm themselves, or is in a situation where safety is at risk right now. Don't wait to see if the feeling passes on its own.

Getting help in South Africa

Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors are also available to support you through difficult times, alongside these national lines. If you're a member, your benefit includes confidential counselling sessions you can book directly. In an emergency, always use the numbers above first, then follow up with ongoing support afterwards.

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If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.