The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) wants to offer help and support to community members feeling scared, confused, anxious and overwhelmed during the lockdown.
Sadag operations director Cassey Chambers said Sadag helplines were a critical service to many, and since the development of the coronavirus, Sadag had received many calls from people who were feeling stressed and anxious.
“There are various factors behind each caller’s concerns, however, we have found that many are panicked about finances, job losses, medical care, access to their medication, appointments with healthcare professionals, feelings of extreme anxiety and stress as well as many living in fear of the unknown,” said Chambers.
“We would like to assure everyone that Sadag’s service will not be disrupted. We will still be providing our support services. All helplines will continue operating as normal.”
Sadag offers a number of services including:
- An online toolkit on www.sadag.org with free resources, online videos, coping skills and more
- Chat to an online counsellor seven days a week from 9am to 4pm via the Cipla WhatsApp chat line on 076 882 2775
- SMS 31393 or 32312 and a counsellor will call you back. Available seven days a week, 24 hours a day
- Sadag helplines offer free counselling, information, referrals and resources seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Call 080 021 2223, 080 070 8090 or 080 045 6789 or the suicide helpline on 080 056 7567.
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