If you’re in distress or need urgent support, there are services available to help you right now.

  • Lifeline

    13 11 14

    Lifeline is a 24/7 telephone support service that offers confidential help to anyone experiencing emotional distress. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, lonely, or unsure how to cope, you can call and speak with a trained crisis supporter—someone who will listen without judgment and help you feel less alone.

    You don’t need to be in crisis to call. Lifeline is for anyone who needs a safe, understanding conversation. It’s also free, anonymous, and available to people of all ages across Australia. They also offer text and online chat if speaking aloud feels too hard.

  • Suicide Call Back Service

    1300 659 467

    The Suicide Call Back Service provides free phone and online counselling to people affected by suicide, including those experiencing suicidal thoughts, people supporting someone else, or those grieving a loss. It’s available 24/7 and offers longer sessions than some other helplines, with the option for follow-up support.

    The counsellors are experienced in suicide prevention and can help you find safety in the moment, as well as explore options for ongoing care. You don’t need a referral, and you can speak to the same counsellor across multiple sessions if needed.

  • Mental Health Triage Services (Victoria)

    1300 874 243

    If you're in Victoria and urgently need mental health support—especially if you or someone close to you is experiencing a severe episode or is at risk of harm—your local Mental Health Triage service can assess the situation and connect you with hospital-based or crisis care.

    They can guide you on whether you need emergency care, organise an in-person assessment, or link you with a public mental health team. This service is available 24/7 and is designed to respond when support needs to happen quickly.

    For other states, please check your local health service.

  • Head to Health

    Head to Health is a national mental health hub created by the Australian Government. It’s designed to make it easier to find reliable, evidence-based mental health services and information—whether you’re looking for self-guided resources, online programs, phone support, or face-to-face care near you.

    If you're not sure where to start, you can speak with a trained mental health professional through the Head to Health Phone Service. They’ll help you work out what kind of support might suit your needs and connect you to the right service. It's a gentle, guided way into the mental health system.

  • Beyond Blue

    1300 22 4636

    Beyond Blue is one of Australia’s best-known mental health organisations. They offer 24/7 phone and webchat support for anyone experiencing anxiety, depression, or general low mood. You can call to speak with a trained mental health professional or explore their extensive online resources, including self-assessment tools, forums, and tips for managing your wellbeing.

    Beyond Blue is especially helpful if you're not sure whether what you're feeling "counts" as a mental health issue. Their team will help you feel understood, supported, and empowered to take the next step—whether that’s seeing a GP, booking therapy, or simply not feeling so alone.

  • QLife

    1800 184 527

    QLife provides phone and webchat support specifically for LGBTQ+ people across Australia. It's a safe and affirming space to talk about mental health, identity, relationships, or anything else you’re experiencing. The service is run by peers—people who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community—who understand the complexities of navigating gender, sexuality, and emotional wellbeing.

    Whether you're looking for support after a tough experience, trying to find resources, or just want to speak with someone who gets it, QLife is here. They're available 3pm–midnight every day, including weekends and public holidays.

Why having a good GP matters

A General Practitoner (GP) is often the first step into the mental health system—and having one you trust can make all the difference.

To access Medicare rebates for psychological therapy, you’ll need a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP. This plan allows you to receive subsidised sessions with a registered psychologist and helps ensure your care is coordinated and supported over time.

For some people—especially those managing ongoing or complex needs—your GP may also be able to prepare a Chronic Disease Management Plan (EPC), which can further support access to care when physical and mental health intersect.

If you're navigating fertility or reproductive health concerns, your GP can also help with referrals for assessments, early pregnancy care, or allied health support related to your emotional wellbeing.

More than anything, a good GP offers continuity. Someone who understands your story, advocates for your care, and helps you access the support you need—whether that’s therapy, medical follow-up, or simply being heard.

If you don’t have a GP you feel comfortable with, it’s okay to start looking now. Tools like HotDoc and HealthShare can help you find someone local, with experience in mental health and women’s health.

And if you’re not sure where to begin, I’m always happy to point you in the right direction.