South African Helplines: Where to Find Support
South Africa is in crisis currently and many individuals face challenging situations such as mental health crises, substance-abuse issues, gender-based violence and other abuse or violence. You or someone you know may be one of them. Reaching out for help can be difficult, but you do not have to face a crisis alone.
The confidential services below connect people across South Africa with trained counsellors, practical information and referrals. Keep this guide handy, share it with someone who may need it, and check the linked website for the latest service details.
SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline
Call: 0800 567 567
Availability: 24-hour, toll-free emergency support.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) provides crisis support, mental-health information and guidance for people in acute distress.
Website: SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline
LifeLine South Africa National Counselling Line
Call: 0861 322 322
Availability: 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
LifeLine offers confidential counselling for a broad range of challenges, including trauma, emotional distress, relationship difficulties and crisis situations.
Website: LifeLine South Africa
Netcare Akeso Crisis Line
Call: 0861 435 787
Availability: 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Trained crisis counsellors can assist during an immediate mental-health emergency, provide information and help callers navigate appropriate services or a point of care.
Website: Netcare Akeso Crisis Line
TEARS Foundation Hope Line
Call: 08000 83277 WhatsApp: 060 939 1857 Support locator: 1347355#
Availability: Free, confidential support 24/7.
TEARS Foundation offers crisis intervention, counselling, advocacy and referrals for people affected by domestic violence and abuse.
Website: TEARS Foundation
Stop Gender Violence Helpline
Call: 0800 150 150
Availability: Toll-free, confidential support 24/7.
This LifeLine service supports people experiencing physical, emotional or financial abuse and can provide counselling, information and guidance on next steps.
Website: LifeLine South Africa
Rape Crisis Cape Town Trust Helpline
Call: 021-447-9762
Availability: 24/7
Rape Crisis provides free and confidential counselling support to survivors of rape and sexual violence.
Website: Rape Crisis
Childline South Africa
Call: 116
Availability: Toll-free phone support is available 24/7; online counselling has set weekday hours.
Childline provides confidential counselling and protection support for children and young people, as well as guidance for adults concerned about a child.
Website: Childline South Africa
Department of Social Development Substance Abuse
Call: 0800 12 13 14 SMS: 32312
Availability: 24-hour, free and confidential support.
Run in partnership with SADAG, this service supports people affected by alcohol or drug use and can provide counselling, crisis assistance and referrals to treatment resources.
Website: SADAG helplines
Triangle Project Helpline
Call: 021 712 6699
Availability: Daily, 13:00–21:00.
Triangle Project provides free, confidential and affirming counselling, information and referrals for LGBTQI+ people, their partners and families.
Website: Triangle Project
Find More Support
Please note that this is not an extensive list. For example, there are also organisations that offer free counselling for gambling, alcohol and gaming addictions etc. If none of these services fits your situation, use the Find A Helpline South Africa directory or conduct a Google search to browse additional verified helplines by topic.
If there is immediate danger: Call South African emergency services on 112 from a mobile phone or the police on 10111.
Helpline numbers, channels and operating hours can change. Check the organisation’s website before relying on a listed service, where possible.
There is more support available than you think. Please access as much support as you can during a difficult time.
Love and light,
Kathryn
Comments