Each year on 26 June, the world observes International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day. The day serves as a call to action to strengthen prevention, support, and education efforts in the global fight against Substance Abuse. This year, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is placing a special focus on young people with the theme: “Our Youth, Our Future.”
“A majority of the calls we receive on SADAG’s 24-hour Substance Abuse Helpline (0800 12 13 14) are from young people or families seeking help for youth. The reality is that youth are the most vulnerable and affected by drug and alcohol abuse, and we need to urgently intervene with education, support, and access to treatment,” says Tebogo Ramidiro, SADAG Projects Coordinator.
Substance Abuse Helpline (0800 12 13 14) Insights from the last 12 months:
▪ Over 158 000 calls from people throughout the country seeking help for themselves or a loved one – majority of calls received from Gauteng (23%), KwaZulu Natal (17%) and Western Cape (16%)
▪ 45% of the calls received are from Youth (aged 13 – 35 years old)
▪ 54% of calls are received from women, with men closing the gap of 46% of calls
▪ Main substance use trends amongst youth include alcohol, marijuana, heroin, nyaope, and TIK/crystal meth
According to the 2024 UNODC World Drug Report, over 275 million people worldwide used drugs in the past year, with youth and adolescents being particularly at risk. The report also highlights that early initiation of drug use increases the likelihood of developing substance use disorders later in life, especially when access to Mental Health support is limited.
Substance Use Awareness Day
Each year on 26 June, the world observes International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day. The day serves as a call to action to strengthen prevention, support, and education efforts in the global fight against Substance Abuse. This year, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is placing a special focus on young people with the theme: “Our Youth, Our Future.”
Substance Use is an increasing concern in South Africa, and one of the most alarming trends is the rapid rise in youth vaping. Even more worrying, a leading lung specialist has already seen serious lung damage in some young people, known as “popcorn lung,” where tiny holes and scarring harm their breathing.
Substance Abuse Helplines Services
Whether you, or someone you know, is dealing with Substance Use or you simply want guidance on how to support a loved one, friend, or learner, SADAG in partnership with the National Department of Social Development’s 24-hour Substance Abuse Helpline (0800 12 13 14) provides free, confidential telephone counselling, information, and referrals across South Africa. SADAG’s trained Counsellors are ready to listen, offer support, and connect you to the right resources and treatment options. This could include Psychologists, Social workers, hospitals, rehabs, outpatient programmes, local NGOs, and Support Groups.
You never have to face these challenges alone. Reach out on 0800 12 13 14 or Whatsapp 087 163 2025 or SMS 32312 anytime, day or night, and take the first step toward recovery and healing.
New Substance Use Web Toolkit
We’re excited to launch SADAG’s newly designed Substance Use Awareness online Toolkit on SADAG's Website, created in response to growing concerns around youth Substance Use. It includes downloadable and printable brochures, posters, video recordings, self-help activities, and educational materials for parents, teachers and communities.
If you're part of a school, clinic, or youth programme and would like printed resources, feel free to email us on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or you can directly access these resources on our webpage. Click here.
Click Here to Access the Substance Use Webpage
World Drug Day Webinar Series: Supporting Youth in Schools and Communities
In recognition of World Drug Day 2025, SADAG — in partnership with the National Department of Basic Education, Gauteng Department of Education, and the Gauteng Department of Social Development — is proud to host a powerful 3-part Webinar Series focusing on youth and Substance Abuse in the education sector. Taking place from 24–26 June, this free online series is designed to equip educators, parents, youth leaders, caregivers, social workers, learner support agents, and school management teams with practical knowledge, tools, and strategies to tackle substance use challenges in schools, classrooms, and communities. Each webinar will be hosted on Zoom and streamed LIVE on SADAG’s Facebook page.
Part 1 – Tuesday, 24 June
14:30 – 15:30
The Science Behind School-Based Prevention Interventions with Director of Psychosocial Support of the Department of Basic Education Ms Sibongile Monareng, Regional Advisor: United Nations on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Mr Gunasekaran Rengaswamy, and Deputy Director: National Department of Social Development, Ms Vathiswa Dlangamandla. Today's session is ideal for Educators, Learner Support Agents, School Management Teams, Social Workers and Community Leaders working with youth. Register for the FREE Webinar via this link:
The Science Behind School-Based Prevention Interventions
Recordings will be available and will be sent to all registrants.
Click Here to Register for Today's DBE Webinar: Part 1
Part 2 – Wednesday, 25 June
18:30 – 19:30
“When Is a Little Too Much?” – Youth Substance Abuse and Harmful Behaviour with Speakers Clinical Psychologist, Mr Neil Amoore, SADAG Substance Abuse Coordinator Tebogo Ramadiro, and SADAG Operations Director Cassey Chambers. This free online Webinar is ideal for Parents, Educators, Learner Support Agents, Youth Leaders and Mental Health Professionals. Register via this link : “When Is a Little Too Much?” – Youth Substance Abuse and Harmful Behaviour
Click Here to Register for DBE Webinar: Part 2
Part 3 – Thursday, 26 June
14:30 – 15:30
Addressing the Substance Use Crisis in Schools and Classrooms with speakers Gauteng Department of Social Development - Acting Director Substance Abuse Programme, Ms Khumo Kgomoeswane, and Gauteng Department of Education - Directorate: Learner Psychosocial Support, Mr Brennand Smith. Register via this link: Addressing the Substance Use Crisis in Schools and Classrooms
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation and strengthen the support system for our youth. Together, we can build safer, healthier learning environments. For more information about the online webinar series – or to access the videos later – go to www.sadag.org.
Click Here to Register for DBE Webinar: Part 3
Facebook LIVE "Ask the Expert" - The Hidden Dangers of Vaping & Hubbly - Friday, 23 June at 1PM
Vaping and hubbly are often seen as harmless or even safer alternatives, but the reality is far more dangerous than most people think. Join SADAG’s upcoming Ask the Expert live stream on Friday, 27 June 2025 at 1pm as we unpack the hidden dangers behind these popular habits. From long-term health effects to Mental Health concerns, this session is a must watch for young people, parents, educators, and anyone who wants the facts. Don’t miss this opportunity to get expert advice. Tune in on our official Facebook page @TheSADAG. Click Here to Join Us.
Join A Substance Use Support Group
Whether you are personally facing Substance Use challenges, or supporting someone you care about, joining a free Support Group can help you feel less alone and more empowered. Support Groups play a vital role in recovery, providing a non-judgemental environment where people can gain practical advice, new coping strategies, and hope for the future. They also help rebuild confidence, reduce feelings of isolation, and make it easier to stay committed on the path to a healthier, substance-free life.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) offers both in-person and online groups across South Africa, making it easy to find the support you need — wherever you are. If you would like to join a Support Group for Substance Use, please visit our Support Group webpage to find a group that suits your needs. Alternatively, you can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are interested in starting a new Support Group in your community.
Click here for Substance Use Support Groups
New Free In-person Mental Health Support Group for Recovering Substance Users
Wednesday, 25 June @ 11am
Join Eugene's FREE in-person Mental Health Support Group for individuals recovering from Substance Use launching tomorrow in Diepkloof, Soweto. Connect with others who understand your journey and find support in a safe, non-judgmental space. Please join us on Wednesday, 25 June 2025 at 11am. This Group will take place at Diepkloof Comprehensive Welfare Centre. For more information contact Eugene on 072 309 6586.
Free Online Support Group Meeting for Healthcare Workers
Thursday, 26 June @ 6pm
To all remarkable Healthcare Workers, your tireless commitment truly deserves dedicated support, and SADAG is the perfect place to find that support and genuine connection with peers. Join our Free Online Support Group on Thursday, 26 June, at 6pm, for a virtual meeting that offers an opportunity to everyone in the Healthcare sector to share experiences and find solidarity with colleagues going through similar challenges. This is your space to connect, be heard, and feel understood.
Understand Substance Use with the UCT-Adapted ASSIST Online Screening Tool
SADAG encourages individuals, educators, parents, health professionals, and community leaders to use the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) — an online self-assessment tool adapted by the University of Cape Town (UCT). This locally relevant version helps screen for risky or harmful use of substances including alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, prescription drugs, and other substances. The tool is quick, confidential, and user-friendly, and provides an immediate risk score along with helpful feedback. Based on your responses, it can guide you to the appropriate level of support — from basic education to professional treatment options.
The tool is especially useful for those concerned about their own Substance Use or wanting to support youth, learners, colleagues, or loved ones. Educators, parents, Social workers, and community leaders can also use it as a proactive way to encourage conversations and early intervention around Substance Use. Try the UCT ASSIST screening tool here: https://assistscreening.uct.ac.za/.
Click Here to go to the Online ASSIST Tool
Help Us Help Others – Join SADAG’s Substance Abuse Referral Network
SADAG receives calls every day from individuals and families urgently looking for help with Substance Abuse. We are expanding our national referral database and invite Mental Health professionals, clinics, hospitals, treatment facilities, and organisations working in the Substance Abuse or dual diagnosis sector to reach out and share their services with us. By joining our referral guide, you can help ensure that more people in crisis are connected to the right support, faster. If your organisation provides relevant services or resources, please email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. — we’d love to collaborate and include you in our growing network of care.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Diepsloot: Men Matter: Don't Let Silence Be The Trigger
Thursday, 26 June 2025 at 11:00
The Diepsloot Counselling Container invites you to a meaningful and empowering session dedicated to Men’s Mental Wellbeing happening at SADAG's Blue Container on Thursday, 26 June 2025 at 11am
Join us for an open and honest conversation about real-life challenges such as Stress, Depression, unemployment, and how suffering in silence can sometimes lead to Substance Abuse. This is a safe and supportive space where you’ll be heard, understood, and reminded that asking for help is a true sign of strength.
Ivory Park: "YOU Matter Youth Event"
Friday, 27 June 2025 at 9:30am
You are invited to the The YOU Matter Youth Event at Lord Khanyile Hall 4326 cnr Freedom drive and Osizweni Street in Ivory Park on Friday, 27 June 2025 at 9:30am. This event is designed to provide a meaningful platform for the young people of Ivory Park and surrounding communities to speak up, learn, and grow together. It will address real-life challenges such as Substance Abuse and Mental Health, offer essential safety tips from the South African Police Service (SAPS), and include recruitment information from RNEET.
Previous SADAG’s “Ask the Expert” Videos on Substance Use Issues
SADAG’s "Ask the Expert" video sessions have offered vital insights into the complex issue of Substance Abuse. We've covered a wide range of topics, including Denial and Alcohol dependency, Harm reduction, Managing Substance Use during the holidays, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and the Impact of addiction on families. Our sessions have also addressed the dangers of Substance Abuse, over-the-counter medication misuse, and the unique challenges faced by young people. To access recordings, resources, and more, visit our Substance Use Toolkit website via the button below.
Click Here to Access Video Library
“In South Africa, Substance Abuse is deeply linked to Mental Health challenges, peer pressure, Trauma, and a lack of access to safe spaces and support,” says Clinical Psychologist Zamo Mbele. “We’re seeing increased levels of Anxiety and Depression among youth who use substances as a way to cope, but it quickly becomes a destructive cycle. Prevention, early intervention, and access to counselling are crucial.”
SADAG reminds communities that free help is available 24 hours a day. If you or someone you know is struggling with Substance Abuse issues, contact SADAG’s dedicated Substance Abuse Helpline:
0800 12 13 14 (24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
SMS: 32312 (24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
WhatsApp: 087 163 2030 (8 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week)
www.sadag.org
Together, let’s invest in the future of our youth by raising awareness, breaking the stigma, and building a safer, healthier South Africa free from drug and alcohol abuse. Follow SADAG on social media (Facebook, TikTok, X and Instagram) for resources and information.