Sadag launches new support groups for anxiety and students
This October, as the world marks Mental Health Day, Sadag is creating safe spaces for those who need to be seen, heard and supported, with two new online support groups open to the public.
World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, serves as a global reminder that mental health is not a luxury but a basic human right.
It is a call to action, urging society to break the silence, offer support, and ensure that no one struggles alone.
Read more: Steps to support a depressed teenager
In line with this year’s focus, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) is launching two new online support groups in October.
These spaces will provide free, safe platforms for people to speak openly, reflect deeply, and find comfort in shared experiences.
The first, Mindful Together – A Support Group for Anxiety and Reflection, launches online on October 8, 2025 [Wednesday] from 5:45pm to 6:45pm.
The group will meet every second Wednesday of the month, led by facilitator Sharon, who draws on her own lived experience with anxiety.
“Healing begins with the story of how we name our experiences, how we are witnessed, and how we reclaim agency. Mindfulness helps me face anxiety with kindness, focus on my breathing, and stay present during change.”
Also read: Depression: Put back the zest in your life!
This group is open to anyone feeling anxious, stuck, or in need of quiet reflection.
The second, the Student Mental Health Support Group (18+), launches online on October 11 [Saturday] at 3pm, with meetings twice a month thereafter. Facilitated by Khethizwe, the group was born out of concern for student suicides at a KZNatal university.
“This Support Group is for students to talk to people who understand them,” she said.
Open to students from any university or college, it aims to provide a non-judgemental environment where young people can be heard and supported.
In a time when many feel disconnected, these groups highlight the power of community. Sometimes mental health care begins not in clinics, but in circles of people who care.
For more information or to join the Mindful Togethergroup, contact Sharon on 083 283 2226.
To join the Student Mental Health Support Group (18+) contact Khethizwe on 083 657 8399. For details on other Sadag Support Groups, visit www.sadag.org, call 0800 456 789 or SMS 31393 to connect with a counsellor.
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