1 in 4 employees face depression — SADAG urges workplaces to ‘go green’ for mental health

THIS World Mental Health Day, observed on Friday, October 10, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is calling on corporates and workplaces across the country to unite for mental health awareness through the “Go Green for Mental Health” campaign.

With one in four employees diagnosed with depression and one in three South Africans likely to experience a mental illness during their lifetime, SADAG stresses that workplaces have a critical role to play in supporting employees’ mental well-being. Despite the need, only one in 10 people living with a mental illness currently has access to mental healthcare.

“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,” explained Dr Colinda Linde, clinical psychologist and SADAG board member. “When workplaces prioritise mental health, everyone benefits as employees thrive and organisations grow stronger.”

Why Going Green Matters

High stress levels, burnout, and untreated mental health challenges affect both employee well-being and overall business performance. SADAG’s campaign aims to create visible support, break down stigma, and encourage employees to seek help early. Throughout October, the organisation will be “going green” in workplaces and communities, sparking conversations and raising awareness around mental health.

How Companies Can Get Involved

SADAG is inviting companies of all sizes to take part in the #GoGreenChallenge. Ways to participate include:

• Choosing any day in October for staff to wear green ties, scarves, ribbons, shirts, or accessories.
• Decorating offices, staff rooms, and clinics 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,” said Lyn, SADAG’s projects manager. “Employees feel seen and supported, and prioritising well-being helps build trust, resilience, and a healthier workplace culture.”

Join the Movement

SADAG is challenging corporates, small businesses, medical practices, hospitals, and clinics to showcase their green spirit by sharing photos of their decorated spaces and staff on LinkedIn and other social platforms using #GoGreen4MentalHealth and #TogetherForMentalHealth.

Funds raised from ribbon and badge sales will go directly toward SADAG’s helplines, providing life-saving support to thousands of South Africans daily.

For ribbons, care packs, or to request a talk or stand, e-mail Lyn at admin@anxiety.org.za.