Across South Africa, more and more people are quietly struggling under the weight of anxiety, depression, financial stress, and loneliness. Whether it’s the pressure of work, family responsibilities, or uncertainty about the future, mental health challenges have become part of everyday life — affecting people in every community, regardless of age, background, or income.

According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), one in three South Africans will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. Yet only one in nine will ever access treatment. It’s a gap that SADAG’s team of volunteers works tirelessly to bridge — answering more than 3,000 calls every day from people who feel they have nowhere else to turn.

“Mental health doesn’t have operating hours,” says Cassie Chambers, Operations Director at SADAG. “People often reach out late at night when the world is quiet and their thoughts feel heaviest — and that’s why we’re here, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

Volunteers at SADAG take calls in 11 different languages, and for those who find speaking too hard, there’s a dedicated WhatsApp line where counsellors chat in real time. “Humans need humans,” Chambers explains. “When you’re overwhelmed, you want to connect with someone who understands — not an automated message.”

This World Mental Health Day, SADAG is reminding South Africans that no matter how dark things feel, help is available — free, confidential, and human.

If you or someone you know needs support, call 0800 567 567 or WhatsApp 076 882 2775.