By Staff Reporter
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has launched its 16 Days of Activism campaign under the national theme of “Uniting to end digital violence against all women and girls”.
With online platforms increasingly becoming spaces where harassment, cyberstalking, image-based abuse, and targeted intimidation occur, the national theme works towards awareness, stronger protection, and better support for survivors.
Digital violence is not limited to the virtual world — it spills into everyday life and has a profound impact on mental wellbeing. According to clinical psychologist Marita Rademeyer, “Beyond psychological harm, long term effects can include depression, anxiety, substance use, reproductive health problems and even chronic physical illness later in life.”
Many women and girls never report digital abuse due to shame, fear of retaliation, or not knowing where to seek help. SADAG call centre manager Tracy Feinstein said, “By encouraging conversations in families, schools, workplaces and communities, SADAG aims to reduce isolation, strengthen support systems, and ensure that survivors know they are not alone and that trustworthy help is within reach.”
Only 16 days?
Dr Shaheda Omar, clinical director of The Teddy Bear Foundation, said, “The 16 Days of Activism should be a 365-day commitment because violence does not pause on Day 17.
“Sixteen days reminds us but 365 days changes us.”
What you can do
SADAG calls on South Africans not only to raise awareness, but also to take action. So report harmful content, support survivors in your circles, challenge harmful online behaviour, and share helpful resources.
For anyone affected by GBV, support from SADAG includes:
▪ A new online toolkit with a video library, articles, support groups listings (nationwide) and other helpful resources. Find them on the landing page at www.sadag.org.
▪ “Ask the Expert” online sessions with guest speakers. Find more information at https://www.facebook.com/TheSADAG/#
▪ Free GBV support groups which provide safe spaces for survivors plus guidance to help healing and regain safety. For more information, call 0800 21 22 23 (or visit the website).
▪ 24-hour free counselling helplines on 0800 456 789 or 0800 567 567 and SMS 31393. Alternatively, WhatsApp 087 163 2030 (available 8am–5pm daily).
