1 in 3 South Africans will experience a mental illness in their lifetime - SADAG

1 in 3 South Africans will experience a Mental Illness in their lifetime, yet 9 out of 10 people living with a mental illness do not have access to the treatments they need.

Today marks World Mental Health Day, under the theme, “Access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies,” which highlights the importance of ensuring that every person can protect their mental health and access services and support when they need it, and the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) together with government, corporates, schools, communities, and civil society, is determined to change this by raising awareness, breaking stigma, and mobilising action.

‘’Alone we can only do so much, but together we can do so much more. This year’s theme reminds us that Mental Health affects every family, every workplace, every community. By standing together, we break down stigma, strengthen partnerships, and create hope for millions of South Africans,’’ says Cassey Chambers, Operations Director at SADAG.

Chambers says Mental Health cannot be left in the shadows. Every South African has a role to play in raising awareness, breaking stigma, and offering support.

“Together for Mental Health is more than a theme – it’s a call to action,” “We are urging schools, companies, communities, and individuals to stand with us. Wear green, join a Parkrun, attend a support group, take part in an Ask the Expert session – every action, big or small, helps to change the narrative and bring hope,’’ says Chambers.

The public is encouraged to wear green in support for mental health awareness.

Clinical Psychologist and SADAG Board Chairperson, Dr Colinda Linde says, “Going Green is more than just a symbol – it’s a visible show of support, a conversation starter, and a way to let people know they are not alone. The ripple effect of companies, organisations and schools across the country standing up for Mental Health can be transformative.”

PHOTO: Mitchum George wears green in support for World Mental Health Day

The City of Cape Town says it has seen an increase in the number of client engagements in the past year, as it prioritises placing mental health at the core of its public health strategy.

‘’City Health is placing mental health firmly at the heart of its strategic priorities, ensuring that preventative care, early detection, and community support are central to its services,’’ said Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

‘’Preventing mental health challenges before they escalate is just as important as treating physical illnesses. We are committed to equipping our communities with the tools, support, and understanding they need to thrive,’’ she added.

SUPPLIED: CoCT

The Western Cape Health & Wellness Department says caring for mental health is about caring for the whole person - mind and body together.

‘’Mental health screening and support are part of routine primary healthcare. Every day, residents can access counselling, treatment, and referral at their local clinic or community health centre. Nurses and clinicians are trained to recognise early signs of distress, depression, and anxiety, and to connect people with the right level of care. This extends to young people as well who can access adolescent and youth-friendly services at Youth Zones. These facilities are specifically created to be safe spaces for connection and support to the healthcare system. Additionally school health teams and community outreach services extend mental health care into schools and neighbourhoods, ensuring that help is available close to home,’’ said the department in a statement.

MEC Mirelle Wenger says mental health services will continue to be integrated across community-based, primary healthcare, and acute hospital platforms in the province.

“Good mental health is the foundation for a good life. It affects how we learn, work, love, and connect with one another. This year’s theme reminds us that during times of difficulty, access to mental health services is more important than ever. This is why we continue to invest in services and infrastructure that support healing, build resilience, and strengthen communities. I want to encourage residents to take their mental health seriously. There is no shame in asking for help from your loved ones as most people will experience some mental health challenges in their lives. By coming together around those that need it most, we can build a healthier Western Cape for all.”

Meanwhile, the Western Cape’s Police Oversight & community Safety MEC, Anroux Marias reflected on the critical, yet often overlooked, mental health challenges faced by law enforcement officers face across the province, especially as they are frequently first on the scene of traumatic incidents.

‘’These experiences, if not properly debriefed and supported, can lead to long-term psychological harm such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It is imperative that SAPS management, provincial authorities, and municipalities take concrete steps to ensure that robust, accessible, and confidential support systems are in place to care for the psychological well-being of our officers. Debriefing after critical incidents must become standard practice, not a luxury, optional or an afterthought.’’

“I urge SAPS leadership and municipalities to invest in sustainable mental health support networks, including on-site psychologists, trauma counselors, peer-support systems, and confidential helplines. Furthermore, support must be ongoing, not just reactive. Mental wellness is a continuous process.”

“To our officers: seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a courageous and responsible act. You are human first, and just as we would never ignore a physical wound, we must never ignore an emotional or psychological one. Prioritising your mental health ensures that you can continue to serve your communities safely, compassionately, and effectively. I also call on senior management not to stigmatise or punish those who come forward for psychological assistance. No officer should fear career repercussions for taking steps to look after their mental health. Empathy and leadership go hand in hand, and the health of our personnel must always come before institutional pride”, concluded Anroux Marais, Western Cape Police Oversight & Community Safety MEC.

Residents are encouraged to look after their mental health, seek support when needed, and engage in conversations that break discrimination and stigma.

If you or someone you care about is struggling, support is just a call or message away. SADAG has trained counsellors 24 hours a day to listen, guide, and help you through whatever you’re facing - call 0800 456 789 or 0800 567 567.

 

Done By: Mitchum George