In today’s fast-paced world, mental health is as important as physical health, yet finding affordable support can still be a challenge. Thankfully, Nelson Mandela Bay offers a variety of free and accessible mental health resources, ranging from counselling services to support groups, all aimed at helping individuals manage their mental well-being. With World Mental Health Day on October 10, it’s a great time to highlight some of the key places where you or a loved one can turn for help, at no cost.
- South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)
SADAG is a leading mental health organisation that offers telephonic counselling, crisis intervention, and referrals for local resources. Though it is a national organisation, it serves individuals in Nelson Mandela Bay through its helplines.
Helpline: 0800 456 789 (24-hour toll-free suicide helpline)
Website: www.sadag.org
- Revive – Empowering Emotional Change (formerly LifeLine Port Elizabeth)
Revive, founded in September 1977 as LifeLine Port Elizabeth, is a training and counselling organisation dedicated to emotional wellness. Revive offers 24-hour confidential counselling services via phone or face-to-face sessions, helping individuals facing emotional crises. With a team of skilled lay counsellors, trauma supporters, and growth facilitators, Revive continues to expand its services to meet community needs.
Phone: 041 373 8882 (24-hour crisis line)
In-person counselling: 33 Park Drive, Central, Port Elizabeth
Email: info@revive.org.za
Website: www.revive.org.za
- FAMSA (Family and Marriage Society of South Africa)
FAMSA offers a wide range of counselling services, including family, marriage, and individual therapy. They provide support for those facing mental health challenges due to family-related issues, stress, or trauma.
Phone: 041 585 9393
Address: 51 Western Road, Central, Port Elizabeth
Website: www.famsa.org.za
- Department of Health Community Clinics
For residents in Nelson Mandela Bay, the Department of Health offers mental health services through its network of public clinics. These services include consultations with psychologists and social workers for various mental health needs such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Although there may be waiting periods, these services are free for patients without medical insurance.
To find your nearest clinic, visit your local Department of Health website or contact your closest community clinic.
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
For those struggling with addiction, AA and NA provide free peer-led support groups across Nelson Mandela Bay. These programmes focus on the 12-step recovery process and are open to anyone seeking help for alcohol or drug addiction.
Alcoholics Anonymous: www.aasouthafrica.org.za
Narcotics Anonymous: www.na.org.za
- The South African Federation for Mental Health
The South African Federation for Mental Health offers advocacy and free mental health services for individuals suffering from severe mental illness. This organisation works with families and communities to support those in need and promotes awareness of mental health issues.
Phone: 011 781 1852 (National office with local support)
Website: www.safmh.org
- Youth and Adolescent Services: Khululeka Grief Support
Khululeka focuses on supporting youth and adolescents experiencing grief or trauma, offering group and one-on-one counselling sessions. These services help young people process their emotions and cope with loss.
Phone: 041 364 0313
Address: 87 Cape Road, Mill Park, Port Elizabeth
Website: www.khululeka.org
Taking the First Step
Whether you or someone you care about is dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma, it’s important to know that help is available. These free resources in Nelson Mandela Bay can make all the difference in achieving better mental health. Don’t hesitate to reach out — your mental well-being matters.
With World Mental Health Day on October 10, now is the perfect time to seek support, start a conversation, and prioritize mental wellness. If you know of additional mental health services that could benefit our community, feel free to share them with us at www.041online.co.za. Let’s support one another in our journey towards healthier, happier lives.
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