Where To Find Help
We all need help from time to time. It is part of being human. Not only is it okay to not always be “okay”- but it is also in fact normal. Admitting that you need some help is not always easy, and then when you are finally ready to reach out for support, the next question can stump you – What do I do now? Where do I go? What support is out there?
YOUR DOCTOR
Firstly, your doctor is a great place to start if you are unsure. They will talk through your concerns and needs and refer you to an appropriate psychologist that can help.
PSYCHOLOGY SERVICES
Whilst a GP referral can give you access to Medicare rebates, it is not essential to have a referral to see a psychologist. Why don’t you give your local psychology service a call to discuss further details and see which psychologist may be able to best support you with your particular goals. We are available to help answer any questions you may have.
PHONE/ONLINE SERVICES
Secondly, there are many services waiting and ready to help. Some are open 24 hours a day, which can be helpful when you GP isn’t available and if you need more immediate support or advice. These services can be a good sounding board and can also help point you in the right direction. You can also call them about a loved one if you are concerned for them.
To make it easier, we’ve compiled a list of resources below for you. We have summarised the purpose of each one and provided their direct numbers and websites.
You are not alone and sometimes the help you need is only a phone call away.
Lifeline
24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services
Call 13 11 14
Beyond Blue
Provide information and support for anxiety, depression and suicide prevention
Call 1300 22 4636
Kids Helpline
24 hour phone service for any child or adolescent or young adult that needs someone to talk to. The service is professional, confidential and free.
Call 1800 55 1800
Did you know you can also text Kids Helpline instead of talk? See WebChat Counselling.
https://kidshelpline.com.au/get-help/webchat-counselling
DV Connect
A 24 hour domestic violence helpline
Call 1800 811 811
1800RESPECT
This is a 24-hour national sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line for any Australian who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence and/or sexual assault.
Call 1800 737 732
https://www.1800respect.org.au
No to Violence
A men’s referral and call helpline service to help men say no to being instigators of violence.
Call 1300 766 491
Mensline Australia
Supports men and boys who are dealing with family and relationship difficulties. 24/7 telephone and online support an information service for Australian men.
Call 1300 789 978
https://mensline.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling
Elder Abuse Helpline
A contact point for anyone who experiences, witnesses or suspects that an older person is being abused by someone they know and trust, usually a family member.
Call 1300 651 192
https://eapu.com.au/elder-abuse-helpline/
Financial Counselling Australia
Access free resources and advice from a private financial counsellor.
Call 1800 007 007
https://www.financialcounsellingaustralia.org.au
