Resources and support
Support exists at every stage — from a crisis in the middle of the night to finding the right therapist for the long haul. These Australian services are a good place to start.
If you need help now
All of these services are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You don't need a diagnosis, a referral, or the "right words" to call.
- Emergency services — 000
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000) for police, ambulance, or fire.
- Lifeline Australia — 13 11 14
24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention. You can also text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online at lifeline.org.au.
- Beyond Blue — 1300 22 4636
24/7 support for anxiety, depression, and related conditions, plus online chat and forums at beyondblue.org.au.
- 13YARN — 13 92 76
24/7 crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, run by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Ongoing support
Recovery usually happens between crises — in therapy rooms, GP clinics, and communities. These organisations can help you find longer-term care.
- Your GP
A general practitioner can assess what’s going on, rule out other causes, and set up a Mental Health Treatment Plan, which subsidises sessions with a psychologist through Medicare.
- Phoenix Australia
Australia’s national centre of excellence in post-traumatic mental health, with evidence-based information for people affected by trauma and the practitioners who support them.
- Open Arms — Veterans & Families Counselling
Free, confidential counselling for current and former Australian Defence Force personnel and their families, available 24/7 on 1800 011 046.
- Blue Knot Foundation
Support for adult survivors of childhood trauma and abuse, including a helpline (1300 657 380) staffed by trauma-informed counsellors.
- Head to Health
An Australian Government service that helps you find digital and local mental health programs, apps, and services suited to your needs.