Treatment in South Africa is very important for anyone struggling with mental health challenges.
However, a session with a licensed therapist can be expensive for those facing financial difficulties. Therapy sessions can cost between R400 to R1,200 per session.
This amount may vary depending on the therapist you choose and the number of sessions you require.
If you're struggling with your mental health, you have some options when saving for treatment.
How to get help when you can't afford treatment in South Africa
The economy in South Africa is not the best at the moment, but it is important to prioritize your mental health. Even if you can't afford long-term treatment, budgeting for even a few sessions can go a long way. If seeing a therapist is definitely not an option right now, here are other options you can take to improve your mental health:
Consult the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG).
SADAG is a non-profit mental health organization that offers a variety of free services and resources to South Africans. The organization offers a toll-free hotline for people struggling with their mental health. You can access their suicide hotline on 0800 567 567 or visit their website for more hotlines and free resources.
Call Lifeline South Africa.
Lifeline is another non-profit organization that provides free counseling to people in need. The organization has 24/7 toll-free crisis support (contactable on 0861 322 322), online chat as well as email support. All counseling services are anonymous and confidential.
Ask your insurance company about therapy options.
Some medical aid in South Africa may cover mental health services. It's important to check with your provider to see if the therapy is covered. Even if Medicare doesn't cover the full cost of therapy, it can help you reduce a large bill over time.
Find physicians with flexible payment options.
Always do your research when it comes to therapists. Some physicians may be willing to provide you with flexible payment options that will help you cover monthly bills. Others may have sliding scale fees, meaning they will charge you a fair price based on your income. Just make sure the therapist you choose is licensed and reputable.
Religious organizations or institutions
Are you a member of a religious organization or institution? You can consult the group to find out if they offer group counseling sessions. These sessions will help you talk about your problems in a shared and safe space.
Read self-help books
Self-help books can be helpful for those dealing with mental health challenges. You can learn more about mental health and how to develop healthy coping skills. You can also access online resources such as research articles and videos.
Practice mindfulness.
Stress is a major contributor to mental health challenges such as anxiety. Mindfulness can improve your mental health by reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety. There are plenty of cheap and free mindfulness apps out there, such as Headspace, Insight Timer and Calm. These apps will help you incorporate guided meditation and mindfulness practices into your daily life.
Lifestyle changes
Regular exercise and improving the quality of your sleep can help you reduce stress. It's also a healthy coping mechanism for turning to alcohol or junk food. Take up a hobby that helps you stay active and try to eat a healthy, balanced diet. This will help you reduce your medical bills and financial worries.
Treatment in South Africa can be expensive, but there are many free and affordable options available to you. If you need urgent help, contact the Suicide Crisis Line in South Africa on 0800 567 567.