THE South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is rolling out a host of initiatives ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10.
This year’s theme is Mental Health in an Unequal World.
According to SADAG, one in three South Africans have a mental health issue at some point in their lifetime and only one in 10 people with a mental illness access mental health facilities (pre Covid-19 stats).
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“SADAG’s helplines have received more than 466 400 calls since January 2021, with one in every five calls being a suicide related issue. We are continuing to see an increase in the number of calls to our helplines each and every day, with 1 800 to 2 200 incoming calls per day,” said the operations director at SADAG, Cassey Chambers.
The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted all aspects of Mental Health.
Clinical psychologist and SADAG board chairperson, Dr Colinda Linde, said, “The state of mental healthcare in South Africa was in crisis long before Covid-19, and we need to ensure that mental health is prioritised across all sectors, provinces, and ages, to help the growing demand for mental health services.”
To further build a community of mental health support, SADAG launched additional free support groups in the last 18 months.
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During October, SADAG will be coordinating a host of activities including:
▪ A series of #FacebookFriday online Q&A sessions with experts.
▪ Miss SA, Shudufhadzo Musida, will share #MindfulMonday sessions every Monday at 19:00, tackling mental health topics.
▪SADAG KZN will host its 6th Annual Mental Health Advocacy Walk with The KZN Mental Health Advocacy Group. For the second year in a row, the walk will be hosted virtually, and the community is invited to post photos and videos on social media. Tag @KZNmentalhealth and @TheSADAG.
SADAG counsellos are available seven days a week, from 09:00 to 16:00, via a WhatsApp chat line on 076 882 2775. SMS 31393 or 32312 and a counsellor will call you back.
SADAG’s helpline provides free telephonic counselling, information, referrals and resources. Call 0800 21 22 23, 0800 70 80 90 or 0800 456 789 or the Suicide Helpline on 0800 567 567.
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