CAUSES

Life events
Thee death of a loved one, losing a job or relationship breakdowns can trigger mental health problems.

Even positive changes, such as getting married or having a baby, can lead to stress or anxiety.

Work and finances
Work-related pressures, the stress of unemployment, and facing financial challenges can have a deep influence on an individual’s mental wellbeing, affecting daily life and overall happiness.

Relationships
Navigating strained relationships, whether with family members, friends or intimate partners, can be emotionally taxing. Such tensions can foster feelings of isolation, loneliness and worthlessness.

Genetics and physical health problems
Living with chronic disease, dealing with a genetic health condition, or confronting a grave illness can be overwhelmingly stressful, often acting as a catalyst for mental health challenges like depression or anxiety, affecting one’s overall quality of life.

SIGNS

Mood swings
Experiencing dramatic mood fluctuations, or enduring extended periods dominated by intense emotions such as profound sadness, anger or even elation, can signal underlying mental health concerns; while enduring a relentless stream of negative thoughts is a serious indication of mental health distress requiring immediate attention and support.

Withdrawal
Deliberately distancing oneself from friends, family and previously enjoyed social engagements, may indicate a shift in emotional wellbeing or the emergence of mental health challenges.

Sleep problems
Feeling overwhelmed by fatigue, or battling persistent insomnia (or, conversely, experiencing periods of excessive sleep), can signify underlying emotional or mental health challenges.

Appetite and aches
Experiencing notable weight fluctuations, coupled with altered eating patterns, can be symptomatic of stress, while continuous physical manifestations, such as recurrent headaches or consistent stomach discomfort, can be related mental health issues.

HOW TO ACCESS HELP

Talk to someone
Your GP should be your first port of call, while seeking guidance from a trained therapist or counsellor can offer a structured and supportive environment to move forward into.

Don’t stop there – voicing emotions and feelings to a trusted friend or family member can o  er signi  cant relief and provide a sense of understanding.

Several organisations in South Africa provide counselling and support services including advocacy and support groups to personalised care for people facing various mental health challenges. These organisations are well equipped to provide a range of mental health services, from. If you’re seeking assistance, or know someone who needs help, contacting them directly can help with finding the right support.

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)
SADAG is the largest mental health organisation in South Africa, o  ering counselling, crisis intervention, and support for people with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. They operate a 24-hour suicide crisis helpline, as well as specific support for teenagers and patients with mental health conditions.

Helpline: 0800 567 567
Website: www.sadag.org

Lifeline South Africa
Lifeline offers free counselling services for people experiencing mental health crises, including depression. Their support is accessible via phone and online platforms.

National Counselling Line: 0861 322 322
Website: www.lifeline.org.za

Akeso Clinics
Akeso is a group of psychiatric hospitals that provides inpatient and outpatient care, including therapy and support for people struggling with depression and other mental health challenges.
They offer tailored treatment plans including individual therapy, group therapy, and psychiatric services.

Contact: 0861 435 787
Website: www.akeso.co.za

South African Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH)
SAFMH works with communities to promote mental health through awareness, advocacy, and support services, including for depression and anxiety. They do not offeer direct counselling but can guide people to appropriate services and helplines.
Contact: +27 (0) 11 781 1852
Website: www.safmh.org

Heal SA
Heal SA runs support groups for mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and trauma.   ey o  er both in-person and online sessions that provide peer support and emotional guidance.

Helpline: 010 880 3334
WhatsApp: 071 322 5453
Email: heal@heal-sa.org.za
Website: www.heal-sa.org.za