A Call For Collective Action
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is raising the alarm over the growing mental health crisis in the country, revealing that one in three South Africans will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. Even more concerning is that nine out of ten people battling mental illness never receive proper treatment.
To tackle this silent epidemic, SADAG has launched its annual “Go Green for Mental Health” campaign this October, aligning with World Mental Health Month. The campaign calls on citizens, schools, workplaces, and businesses to wear green and show their support for mental health awareness.
Together For Mental Health
SADAG Operations Director Cassey Chambers says this year’s theme, “Together for Mental Health,” highlights the need for collaboration across society. “Our combined efforts will produce greater results than our individual work alone,” she explains.
Chambers stresses that mental illness touches every part of society — from families to classrooms to boardrooms — and calls for partnerships between government departments, corporate leaders, and community groups to make meaningful progress in breaking the stigma.
“The time for mental health to remain hidden is over,” adds Chambers. “We need visible, united action.”
The Campaign: Go Green For Mental Health
The “Go Green” initiative isn’t just symbolic — it’s designed to bring mental health conversations into everyday spaces. SADAG plans to host events and discussions across schools, universities, and workplaces, using green as a unifying colour of hope and visibility.
Dr Colinda Linde, SADAG board chair and clinical psychologist, says wearing green is a simple but powerful gesture. “It’s an expression of solidarity with those who are struggling and a way of showing that mental health matters to us all,” she explains.
Breaking The Stigma
In a country where mental health is often misunderstood or ignored, SADAG’s campaign encourages South Africans to speak openly about their struggles, check in on loved ones, and push for better mental health support systems.
Social media users have already begun sharing photos of themselves dressed in green, using hashtags like #GoGreenForMentalHealth and #TogetherForMentalHealth, turning the movement into a national conversation of hope and compassion.
Need Help?
If you or someone you know is struggling, SADAG’s 24-hour Suicide Crisis Helpline is available toll-free at 0800 567 567. You can also contact 0800 456 789 or WhatsApp 31393 for immediate support.
Source: The South African
Photo by Louis Galvez on Unsplash
