If you or someone you know is dealing with a mental health condition, it’s important to know that there’s help available, and you don’t have to go through this alone. There are many mental health organisations that you can reach out to and some of them are free. All mental health organisations provide a safe and healthy environment that will allow you to openly talk about your feelings. Here are some organisations to keep in mind or reach out to.
Visit a Public Clinic
The first step is to visit your local clinic for an assessment. You will be examined and given a referral letter, if necessary. You will have to use this referral letter for admission to a mental health institution or state hospital. If you find that you are a danger to yourself or under the age of 18, you may need your parent or guardian to assist with this process.
The Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorders Alliance (SABDA)
The Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorders Alliance (SABDA) is a non-profit organisation providing mental health support for schizophrenia, bipolar and other mental illnesses. You can contact them on 011 326 0661 to make an appointment. They are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 1pm.
South African Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH)
South African Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH) is an organisation focused on providing community mental health care. They are open from 8am to 4pm (every day) and you can contact them on 011 781 1852.
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group is the largest mental health support in South African and are committed to quality counselling and outreach. You can reach out to them on 0800 21 22 23 from 8am to 8pm or 0800 456 789 which is a 24 hour helpline.
Lifeline South Africa
Lifeline provides free, 24-hour telephone crisis support, suicide prevention, mental health and emotional support and assistance. They provide telephone, face-to-face and online counselling. You can contact them on their toll free line 0800 150 150. They are open 7 days a week, 24hrs.
These organisations are available for us to reach out to, either for ourselves or if you need support helping a friend or relative. All mental health organisations offer confidentiality and a space where you can openly talk about your feelings which can help improve the quality of your life.
Remember if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).