With one in four employees diagnosed with depression, and one in three South Africans likely to experience a mental illness in their lifetime, workplaces play a vital role in recognising and supporting employees who may be struggling. Yet despite the growing need, only one in ten people living with a mental illness have access to mental healthcare, says SADAG.

"When stress, depression, or anxiety go untreated, it doesn't just affect the individual — it affects the entire workplace, leading to mistakes, absenteeism, burnout, and high staff turnover. When workplaces prioritise mental health, everyone benefits as employees thrive and organisations grow stronger," says Dr Colinda Linde, Clinical Psychologist and SADAG Board Member.

High levels of stress, burnout, and untreated mental illness directly impact both employee wellbeing and business performance. By participating in our 'Go Green for Mental Health' campaign, companies are not only raising awareness, but also helping to break down stigma and encouraging employees to seek support early, adds the NGO.

Throughout October, SADAG will be going green to shine a spotlight on mental health. From workplaces to community spaces, SADAG will be raising awareness, sparking conversations, and encouraging everyone to show their support by joining the movement, says the NGO.

How Companies Can Get Involved

  • Dedicating any day in October to mental health by encouraging staff to wear green (ties, scarves, ribbons, shirts or accessories).
  • Decorating offices, clinics and staff rooms with green balloons, bunting or streamers.
  • Supporting SADAG's 24-hour Suicide Helpline by purchasing green ribbons or badges for R10 each for employees.

"When workplaces show visible support for mental health — through campaigns, awareness initiatives or simply by going green — they break the silence and stigma around mental health. Employees feel seen and supported and prioritising wellbeing helps build trust, resilience and a healthier workplace culture," says SADAG's Projects Manager.

SADAG is challenging corporates, small businesses, medical practices, hospitals and clinics to take part in the '#GoGreenChallenge'. Individuals are encourgaed to share photos of their green workplace on LinkedIn and other social media using '#GoGreen4MentalHealth' and '#TogetherForMentalHealth', says the NGO.

Funds raised from ribbons and badges will go directly to SADAG's helplines, providing life-saving support to thousands of South Africans every day, adds the NGO.

SADAG is actively involved in promoting positive corporate mental health by providing companies with comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) services, including 24-hour helplines, counselling, manager support, training and resources to improve. To learn more about SADAG's support for workplace wellbeing, click here.

For more information, visit www.sadag.org.

*Image courtesy of contributor