seeking help

it’s often the first steps that are the hardest

Here are a small selection of places and organisations where you can start to seek help.

The Black Dog Institute

“The Black Dog Institute is dedicated to understanding, preventing and treating mental illness. We are about creating a world where mental illness is treated with the same level of concern, immediacy and seriousness as physical illness; where scientists work to discover the causes of illness and new treatments, and where discoveries are immediately put into practice through health services, technology and community education.”

Headspace

“More than 75 per cent of mental health issues develop before a person turns 25.

“And yet, many traditional services aren’t equipped to address the unique barriers that young people face to accessing mental health support. headspace began in 2006 to address this critical gap, by providing tailored and holistic mental health support to 12 - 25 year olds. With a focus on early intervention, we work with young people to provide support at a crucial time in their lives – to help get them back on track and strengthen their ability to manage their mental health in the future.”

 

Beyond Blue

“Beyond Blue is here to help people in Australia understand that these feelings (of anxiety, depression and suicide) can change. We want to equip them with the skills they need to look after their own mental health and wellbeing, and to create confidence in their ability to support those around them.

“Our vision is for everyone in Australia to achieve their best possible mental health.

“Through our support services, programs, research, advocacy and communication activities, we’re breaking down the stigma, prejudice and discrimination that act as barriers to people reaching out for support.”

Reachout

“ReachOut is Australia’s leading online mental health organisation for young people and their parents. Our practical support, tools and tips help young people get through anything from everyday issues to tough times – and the information we offer parents makes it easier for them to help their teenagers, too.

“ReachOut has been changing the way people access help since launching as the world’s first online mental health service more than 20 years ago. Everything we create is based on the latest evidence and designed with experts, and young people or their parents. That’s why our digital self-help tools are trusted, relevant and easy to use.

“Available for free anytime and pretty much anywhere, ReachOut is accessed by 132,000 people in Australia every month. That’s more than 1.58 million each year..”

 

Kids Help Line

“Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.

“Since 1991, Australia’s kids and young people have been turning to our professional, specialised counsellors, no matter who they are, where they live or what they want to talk about.”

Suicide Call Back Service

“Suicide Call Back Service is a nationwide service that provides professional 24/7 telephone and online counselling to people who are affected by suicide.”

 

Lifeline

“Lifeline is a national charity providing all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.

“Somewhere in Australia there is a new call to Lifeline every minute. People call Lifeline’s 24 hour crisis line 13 11 14 about:

  • Suicidal thoughts or attempts

  • Personal crisis

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Loneliness

  • Abuse and trauma

  • Stresses from work, family or society

  • Self-help information for friends and family”