The University of Pretoria’s (UP) Student Counselling Unit has entered into a partnership with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). This partnership will allow students to be recruited, selected, trained, and upskilled to be able to refer their fellow students onto other more advanced support or counselling services.

This partnership will provide onsite services of Peer Support Groups which will assist UP Student Counselling Services. The Peer Support Group Programme will work in conjunction with the already existing 24hr Student Careline (0800 747 747) and the Student Counselling Unit as a support mechanism and additional support programme for students.

SADAG will the train new Peer Support Group Leaders, and will support establishing new Peer Support Groups across UP’s campuses. The Peer Support Group Leaders will also have direct access to SADAG via the dedicated UP Student Careline Helpline (0800 747 747) that offers support and assistance with the effective and sustainable running of their Support Group.

SADAG will host Peer Support Group Workshops focusing on starting Support Groups. This will impart skills in Compassionate and educate students on various mental health problems.

The Peer Support Groups will offer the students additional information, guidance, support and help. The Peer Support Groups will also support and offer information to those students who have family members or loved ones who are affected by Mental Health issues.

If you’d like to be part of the Peer Support Group Leaders programme, please contact Dr Linda Blokland on 012 420 4002;  [email protected]