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Helplines in South Africa.

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The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is at the forefront of patient advocacy, education and destigmatisation...


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The Akeso Crisis Helpline is a 24/7 telephone service where trained crisis line counselors can guide you through an immediate...


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Stop Gender Violence Helpline offers 24/7, free and confidential support and information over phone. We support everyone in...


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South African Federation For Mental Health Helpline provides free, compassionate and confidential support by phone. We help...


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TEARS Foundation is a women led organization help is provided regardless of ethnicity, religion, culture or socio-economic...


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Lifeline South Africa provides 24/7 free and confidential support by phone. We are here to help everyone in South Africa who...


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Department of Social Development Substance Abuse Line 24hr helpline offers 24/7, free and confidential support by phone and...


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Childline provides 24/7, free and confidential support over phone and online chat. We exist to help youth in South Africa who...


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The AIDS toll-free Helpline provides anonymous & confidential telephonic lay counselling, support and referral services, 24...


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AL-ANON offers 24/7, free, compassionate and confidential support by phone. We help everyone in South Africa who may be looking...


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Alcoholics Anonymous South Africa is dedicated to providing 24/7, free, compassionate and confidential support over phone. We...


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Rape Crisis provides free and confidential counselling support to survivors of rape and sexual violence of all gender...


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Free hotlines and helplines in South Africa

It can be difficult to know where to turn when you're struggling with your mental health. Whether you're going through a tough time, or you're concerned about a loved one, you can turn to a helpline or hotline for crisis counseling support. 13 helplines are available in South Africa to help you.

Feeling hesitant to reach out is completely normal. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable.

What are helplines or hotlines?

Helplines, otherwise known as hotlines or crisis lines, offer free, confidential counseling support to people in emotional pain. Some offer support over the phone, and others over text message or online chat.

How will a helpline or hotline support me?

Helpline responders support you by listening to you, helping you understand your emotions better, and working with you on a plan forward. Having a plan about what to do next can help you feel more in control.

Who will I talk to when I contact a helpline?

Helplines are usually staffed by counselors and volunteers who are trained in how to support people in an emotional crisis. Some helplines are also run by peers who have a similar life experience to the topic they provide support with.

What issues can I talk to a helpline about?

Some helplines support with specific issues, such as suicide, depression, anxiety, and abuse. Others support with specific demographics, such as the LGBTQ+ community, veterans or young people. So if you're looking for tailored support, you might be able to find a hotline specific to your problem. There are also helplines that support with any problem that’s causing you distress – no matter how small or big it seems to you.

What is a suicide hotline?

Most countries have a suicide hotline or suicide prevention line (often called a lifeline or crisis line) available 24/7. These helplines provide compassionate support for people who might be having feelings of wanting to die or kill themselves. Commonly, suicide hotlines will also support anyone, regardless of what they are going through.

Can I contact a helpline for support with a person I'm worried about?

It can be worrying when a friend or family member is struggling with their mental health or experiencing a behavioral health crisis. Helplines will support you to better help your loved one, whether that is actions you could take to support them, or external support they might be able to access.

I'm in South Africa. What hotlines and helplines are available to me?

In South Africa, there are 13 hotlines and helplines that support with a range of topics.

The first helpline was set up in 1953. Today, there are over 2,000 helplines supporting with a wide variety of issues, experiences and demographics. Their shared desire to assist those going through emotional or mental distress binds them together. No matter what your problem is, talking to someone can help and helplines provide this vital service, for free.


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