According to the World Health Organisation (2020), 1 in 7 children aged between 10 – 19 years old, experiences a mental disorder. This accounts for 13% of the global burden of disease in this age group. Research has also shown that depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are among the leading causes of mental illness among adolescents.

Furthermore, suicide has increased exponentially and is now the 4th leading cause of death among the 15 – 19-year olds. Furthermore, the WHO (2020) maintains that adolescents with mental health conditions are particularly vulnerable to social exclusion, discrimination, stigma, educational difficulties, risk-taking behaviours, physical ill-health and human rights violations.

In South Africa, research supports the evidence that there is a high prevalence of depression and anxiety among high school learners. However, the resources that are available are either sparse or difficult to access.

SADAG’s Schools Outreach Programme provides talks to learners (class-by-class), workshops for parents and teachers, and materials on various mental health issues to provide resources and practical tips and tools.

To learn more about school talks, book a school talk or request for a care pack contact Roshni on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.