Not Feeling Okay
Help is available this holiday season
The festive season is often described as a joyful time. For many people, it is, but for others, it can be emotionally demanding.
If this season feels heavy, please know this: you don’t have to cope alone, and help is available.
When to reach out
If you or someone close to you feels overwhelmed, distressed, unsafe, or simply not okay, reaching out early can make a real difference. Below are support services available in South Africa, offering confidential help, many of them 24/7. These details are shared in good faith to assist members during this period.
| Emergency & crisis support (24-hour services) |
Emergency Assistance AZOZA 0860 255 426 Ambulance and trauma, counselling support |
Suicide Crisis Line SADAG 0800 456 789 (24/7) WhatsApp: 076 882 2775 |
| Lifeline South Africa 0861 322 322 (24/7 counselling line) |
Childline 116 (Free from any phone) |
Gender-Based Violence Command Centre 0800 428 428 (24/7) |
Counselling, referrals & mental health support
| South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) 011 234 4837 Available 08:00 – 20:00, 7 days a week Counselling and referrals |
Dr Reddy’s Mental Health Helpline 0800 21 22 23 |
Adcock Ingram Depression & Anxiety Helpline 0800 70 80 90 |
Akeso Psychiatric Response Unit 0861 435 787 (24-hour response) |
Online support
Headroom
An online platform to find and book sessions with registered psychologists, counsellors, and social workers. https://headroom.co.za/find-help/
Important to remember
- If you feel at immediate risk, go to your nearest hospital casualty department or call emergency services.
- Asking for help is not a weakness. It’s a responsible, courageous step.
- Support is available — even when it feels like everything is shutting down for the holidays.