Helplines in South Africa

SADAG is South Africa's largest mental health support organization offering 24/7 crisis helplines for suicide, substance abuse, and general mental health. Services include toll-free phone lines, SMS support, WhatsApp counseling, and over 180 free support groups nationwide.

LifeLine South Africa provides free and confidential counseling support for crisis, mental health, trauma, relationships, depression, anxiety, suicide prevention, and more. Services available via phone, WhatsApp, and online chat.

NPOwer SA provides free 24/7 mental health support via toll-free helpline and SMS for South Africans in distress, operated by SADAG. Offers crisis counseling, emotional support, and referrals.

National 24/7 government-operated command centre staffed by trained social workers providing immediate counseling to GBV victims and survivors. Offers crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals to shelters, police, and support services.

Free 24/7 confidential counseling and support for survivors of rape and sexual violence of all gender identities. Operating for nearly 50 years providing helplines, in-person counseling, court support, and social work services at no cost.

Free 24/7 crisis intervention, trauma counseling, advocacy and prevention education for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. Founded by GBV survivor, provides nationwide support with confidential services.

Free 24/7 toll-free national hotline for reporting human trafficking, accessing victim assistance, and verifying legitimacy of job offers. Operated by A21 South Africa with trained call specialists.

Fellowship of people recovering from alcoholism offering free peer support meetings nationwide and 24/7 helpline. No dues or fees - only requirement is desire to stop drinking. Provides in-person, online meetings, and phone/WhatsApp support.

Free 24/7 toll-free helpline offering confidential counseling and treatment for problem gambling. Provides free consultations, self-exclusion support, and outpatient treatment covered by the programme. Funded by gambling industry.

National 24/7 toll-free counseling service for children and families. Handles over 300,000 calls annually providing crisis support, child protection referrals, and online counseling. Connects to police and social workers when needed.