Mental Health Resources in Johannesburg
Free crisis hotlines, support groups, and mental health resources for Johannesburg and Gauteng residents. You are not alone.
Call the 24/7 Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567 (toll-free)
Mental Health in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, as South Africa's economic hub, presents unique mental health challenges. High crime rates, traffic stress, economic pressure, and the fast-paced urban lifestyle contribute to elevated levels of anxiety, depression, and trauma among Joburg residents.
Common mental health concerns in Johannesburg include:
- Crime-related trauma and PTSD - Hijackings, robberies, and home invasions create lasting psychological impact
- Work-related stress and burnout - Competitive corporate environment and long commutes
- Economic anxiety - Job insecurity and financial pressure in an expensive city
- Social isolation - Despite high population density, many residents feel disconnected
Fortunately, Johannesburg has extensive mental health resources available, from free crisis hotlines to professional support groups and alternative treatment options like Dianetics.
24/7 Crisis Hotlines (Toll-Free)
All helplines below are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and are toll-free from anywhere in Gauteng.
Immediate support for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional crisis. Trained counselors available 24/7.
SMS: 32312
24/7 support for substance abuse, addiction, and recovery. Confidential counseling and referrals.
SMS: 31393
General mental health support for anxiety, depression, and other conditions. Professional counselors available.
Support for crime victims, hijacking survivors, and trauma recovery. Available 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM daily.
Support Groups in Johannesburg
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) runs over 60 free support groups across Gauteng for various mental health conditions including:
- Depression and Anxiety
- Bipolar Disorder
- OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)
- PTSD and Trauma Recovery
- Substance Abuse and Addiction
- Grief and Bereavement
- Panic Disorder
- Social Anxiety
Call SADAG: 011 234 4837 (8AM-8PM)
Dianetics in Johannesburg
Dianetics provides a drug-free approach to addressing the underlying causes of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. Rather than managing symptoms with medication, Dianetics focuses on resolving the traumatic memories and experiences that create psychological distress.
Many Johannesburg residents dealing with crime-related trauma, work stress, and economic anxiety have found relief through Dianetics auditing and self-help techniques.
Gauteng Provincial Mental Health Services
The Gauteng Department of Health provides free mental health services at public hospitals and clinics across Johannesburg:
- Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital - Psychiatric services and emergency mental health care
- Helen Joseph Hospital - Outpatient psychiatric clinic
- Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital - Psychiatric ward and outpatient services
- Sterkfontein Hospital - Specialist psychiatric hospital
- Community Health Centres - Mental health services at local clinics
Contact Gauteng Health: [email protected] | [email protected]