Crisis and support resources
If you need help now, these services are free and available to anyone in South Africa.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger
Free helplines
Suicide Crisis Helpline
If you are having thoughts of suicide, or are in crisis.
24 hours, every day
SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group)
Depression and anxiety support, crisis counselling and referrals.
0800 567 567 · SMS 31393
To be confirmed
Lifeline South Africa
General crisis counselling.
To be confirmed
Childline South Africa
For children and young people, and adults concerned about a child.
24 hours, every day
GBV Command Centre
Gender-based violence support.
24 hours, every day
Phapano Directory is an information service. We are not an emergency service and cannot provide crisis support ourselves.
Low-cost and public services
Psychological services are available through the public health system at little or no cost. Your nearest clinic or community health centre can refer you. University psychology departments often run training clinics that offer reduced-fee sessions, and a number of NGOs provide free counselling.
We are building a verified directory of these services. Until then, SADAG can refer you to options in your area.
Supporting someone else
You do not need the right words. Ask directly how they are, listen without trying to fix it, and stay with them if you think they are at risk. If there is immediate danger, call 10111 or 112. The helplines above will also advise you on how to support someone.
What this site can and cannot do
Phapano Directory helps you find a registered psychology professional and understand which kind of professional fits your situation. We do not provide psychological or medical services, we are not an emergency service, and we cannot contact anyone on your behalf.
When you are ready, you can browse the directory.