Mental health support can be found in many ways. From call and chat services to specialised care, there is help available for you.
Ill mental health is experienced by millions of people in Australia. Statistics also show that anyone at any stage of life can struggle with ill mental health. Most disorders can be treated or managed with a care plan. Recovery is possible with support.
The important thing is to find support when you need it. This may be a difficult thing for you to do, but times have changed. There is now much more social acceptance of the fact that mental health does not define a person.
If you or someone you know is experiencing ill mental health, you are not alone and there is help available. A good place to start is by talking with your doctor. You can also visit Medicare Mental Health, a free and confidential service with more than 500 resources available to everyone.
Mental health helplines
The first line of support for many people is often a trained and understanding person who is ready for your call. Some of the main phone or online chat services are:
Beyond Blue is a mental health support service that connects you to a person to talk to on those days when things seem too much, or something isn’t quite right.
Griefline
Griefline – call 1300 845 745 between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday (AEST).
Discover how staying socially connected can improve your health as you age. Explore local groups, social activities, and tips for stronger connections.
MensLine Australia is the 24/7 national telephone and online support service for men. The service is available from anywhere in Australia and is staffed by professional counsellors who are experienced in men's issues.
Open Arms
Open Arms – call 1800 011 046, or visit their website.
Open Arms Veterans and Families Counselling provides free and confidential counselling to anyone who has served at least one day in the Australian Defence Force.
The Suicide Call Back Service offers free professional 24/7 telephone counselling support if you are at risk of suicide, concerned about someone at risk, bereaved by suicide, or experiencing emotional or mental health issues.
Connecting with others and sharing personal stories can help. For example, support groups have been found to help people who are feeling distressed due to retirement.
Social connection can buffer the effects of stress. Research suggests this can even make chronic pain feel less distressing. That can make it more manageable.
However, peer support may not be ideal for everyone. If you're feeling stressed, depressed, anxious, or not coping, contact a GP or helpline.
How to be a mental health ally
Being a mental health ally means you support and include people who are struggling with their mental health. Here are some of the ways you can be a mental health ally:
Talk to your friends or family members who may be going through a hard time. Listen to them with empathy and compassion.
Use positive and respectful language when talking about mental health and don’t use blaming words.
Educate yourself and others about mental health issues.
Challenge myths and stereotypes.
Take charge of your mental health, reach out today
If you need more information, get in touch with one of our helpful team on 1800 951 971.
You can also learn more by following the links below:
Franqueiro, A. R., Yoon, J., Crago, M. A., Curiel, M., & Wilson, J. M. (2023). The interconnection between social support and emotional distress among individuals with chronic pain: A narrative review. Psychology Research and Behavior Management, 16, 4389–4399. https://doi.org/10.2147/PRBM.S410606
Qorbani, S., Majdabadi, Z. A., Nikpeyma, N., Haghani, S., Shahrestanaki, S. K., & Poortaghi, S. (2024). Qorbani, S., Majdabadi, Z. A., Nikpeyma, N., Haghani, S., Shahrestanaki, S. K., & Poortaghi, S. (2024). The effect of support group participation on retirement syndrome in retired older adults: A randomized controlled trial. BMC Geriatrics, 24(1), 155. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-024-04923-4
How to use this information
LiveUp provides free information to help you make informed decisions about your health. This information is for general and educational purposes only, is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide, and does not replace medical advice. Everyone is different, so some of these tips may work better for you than others. You should use your own judgment and seek medical advice when applying this information to yourself, to determine if it is suitable in your circumstances. Your use of, or reliance on, this information is solely at your own risk. Independent Living Assessment Incorporated is not responsible or liable for any injury, loss, or damage caused as a result of your use of, or reliance on, this information.
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