Suicide ranks as the second most common cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 29, and specific challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse and gender-based violence can elevate the risk of suicide. With that in mind, we delve into the support and resources available to South Africans who may be struggling with their mental well-being. Look at our comprehensive list of helplines and resources available for anyone seeking assistance or guidance.

South African Depression and Anxiety Group

SADAG, South Africa’s largest mental health organisation, offers a range of free mental health support services. Their helpline supports South Africa’s 11 official languages and is open 24 hours a day. SADAG offers support through telephonic counselling, WhatsApp and SMSs as well as through face-to-face counselling and support groups in your area. The SADAG helpline offers immediate assistance to individuals in crisis and is also open to concerned individuals calling on behalf of someone else.

• Suicide Crisis Line (8am to 8pm): 0800 21 22 23
• Suicide Crisis Line (8pm to 8am): 0800 12 13 14
• SMS line: 31393.

Substance Abuse Support

Individuals struggling with substance abuse face a sixfold increase in their likelihood of suicidal tendencies. Taking proactive steps to seek help before reaching a state of crisis is important. Alcoholics Anonymous South Africa (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous South Africa (NA)  are two information rich sites, open to everyone. Both resources serve as an infohub and directory to assist individuals with substance abuse. Get in touch with these substance abuse organisations through the channels below for guidance on how to best navigate the challenges of addiction:

• AA South Africa: 0861 435 722 | Whatsapp: 073 021 2523
• NA South Africa: 0861 00 6962

Bright Sky: A Tool to Combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

Bright Sky is The Vodacom Foundation's cutting-edge, free-to-download application designed to aid in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). This powerful app offers several essential features such as:

• Nationwide GBV Support Directory: Quickly connect with nearby specialist GBV support services by area or current location.
• National Helpline Contacts: Access contact details for GBV helplines and call them directly from the app.
• My Journal Tool: Safely document abuse incidents in text, audio, video or photo format without saving content on the device or the app.
• Relationship Safety Assessment: Evaluate relationship safety and dispel GBV myths through questionnaires.
• GBV Information: Get extensive info on GBV, support types, online safety tips, and guidance on helping someone facing GBV.
• Support and Resources: Access advice on sexual offences, domestic violence, and links to more information.

Download Bright Sky for Android or iOS

Vodacom's 112 Emergency Service App

The Vodacom 112 Emergency Service App is exclusively available for Vodacom customers on Prepaid, Contract and Top Up / Hybrid packages who experience communication barriers such as Deaf, hard of hearing, hearing impaired, deaf, or speech impaired. The Vodacom 112 Emergency Service App enables Customers to communicate with the ER24 Emergency Services Contact Centre from their mobile device.

Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. If you or anyone you know might be depressed, anxious, struggling with substance abuse or is a victim of GBV, make use of the resources outlined above. In an emergency, Vodacom's 112 service is there for you, ready to connect you to the nearest local government emergency service based on your location, even if you find yourself without airtime. This invaluable service is accessible to all Vodacom Contract, Top Up, and Prepaid customers, ensuring that swift assistance is available when you need it most.