Connecting with Wellbeing & Mental Health Support has never been easier!
We all struggle from time to time and sometimes we just need a helping hand.
Speaking and connecting to professional help is the best way to keep you on track, whether it be for a wellbeing or mental health related issue.
Support options to suit everyone
Making the first booking or call to get support, is probably the hardest part when connecting to a professional. Here we show you a number of options to get you connected.
Our Wellbeing Factsheets are also a great place to start. They cover Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Talking about Mental Health, Providing Support and more.
Private Providers - Psychologists, Social Workers or Counsellors
Visit or call your GP to get a Mental Health Care Plan and referral, this will provide you with 6-10 medicare subsidised sessions with an approved psychologist or mental health social worker.
Your GP can then refer you to their recommended mental health professional or you can also request someone if you've heard of a professional you would like to connect with. You will then need to call the professional and arrange an appointment.
Some professionals will “bulk bill”, so that there are no out of pocket expenses, while others may charge a ‘gap payment’ or a small fee to make up the difference between their hourly rate and the Medicare rebate
You can find a Psychologist - HERE
Many Mental Health professionals also work in local private practices.
You you can book directly with the professional. Taking this option can mean shorter waiting times, as you will pay the the full rate that the privately practicing professional charges (fees generally range from $80 - $250 per hour).
You may be eligible for a rebate from your health insurance provider, but you would need to contact your health fund to check.
Crisis Care
If you or someone you know is in a crisis and requires immediate support, you should contact emergency services by calling 000.
You can also contact any of the numbers below:
Counselling services for anyone at anytime.
Phone 13 11 14
Kids Helpline
Telephone and online counselling for young people aged 12-25.
Phone 1800 551 800
SANE helpline
Information, advice and referral for mental illness.
Phone 1800 187 263
beyondblue
Information and referral for depression and anxiety.
Phone 1300 224 636
Parentline
Support, counselling and education for parents.
Phone 1300 301 300
Suicide Support
Suicide Callback Service offers FREE counselling to people affected by suicide. Whether that is your own personal feelings, if you're worried about someone or you've lost a loved one - you can access support 24/7 on 1300 659 467.
For anyone affected by suicide, the Mindstar Unpack episode with Angela Grieve, has provided much support and understanding. You can find this on the Unpack Page.
Government Funded or Community Programs
There are several government or community organisations that offer programs, or mental health services for free or for a small fee.
Visit your GP to see what programs are available in your area, or visit the websites of community providers to see what they offer.
Some examples of providers are: Relationships Australia, Beyond Blue, Mission Australia and Gambling Help Online.
Headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Foundation providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds.
