Are you feeling constantly stressed or overwhelmed?
Maybe you are dealing with depression, trauma, or suicidal thoughts?
You might even be very worried about a friend or family member.
If so, don’t worry. Help is available.
Whatever your concerns, accessing local mental health help is easier than ever in Australia. So, it is not something you need to go through alone.
The good news is that many mental health services are completely free or covered by Medicare mental health funding. That is one less thing to feel anxious about.
Here is how you can get the help you need.
Quick Access: Mental Health Support by Your Situation
Let’s start with the assistance you need right now.
If You’re in Immediate Danger or Facing a Mental Health Crisis
If you or someone else is at immediate risk, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for emergency services.
If someone is at risk of suicide, serious harm, or experiencing a severe mental health crisis, you can also go to your nearest emergency department at a public hospital.
For 24/7 crisis support, you can contact:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
They provide free support, including online chat.
If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed, Anxious or Low
If you’re experiencing stress, depression, or other mental health challenges but aren’t in immediate danger, you can:
- Book a Medicare mental health check with your GP
- Contact a local Medicare Mental Health Centre
- Access free guided digital support programs
- Speak with a counsellor or other mental health professional
You don’t have to wait until things feel severe. In fact, often, the earlier you get support, the quicker your mental health recovery will be.
If You Need Ongoing Support
For those who need longer-term treatment or diagnosis of a mental illness, your GP can create a Mental Health Care Plan. This allows access to subsidised sessions with psychologists and other health professionals.
You may also be able to self-refer to certain services without a GP referral.
Understanding Your Mental Health Support Options in Australia
Australia’s mental health system comprises several resources. They include:
- Medicare-funded services
- State-run mental health services
- Community-based centres
- Digital and telehealth options
- Public hospitals
- Not-for-profit organisations
Under the Australian Government, many services are free or low-cost for people with a Medicare card. They can be contacted directly. However, some others might require a referral from a GP (who will advise you if they do.)
Free Mental Health Services Available in Your State
Each state offers slightly different services to assist you with your mental health and wellbeing. For instance:
New South Wales
The NSW Mental Health Line website connects you with local services that offer the right support and advice.
Victoria
In Victoria, Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals allow for self-referral without the need to see a GP first.
Queensland
Queensland residents can access a range of hospital-based services, community mental health centres, and regional programs. (Fraser Coast Mental Health Services is one example).
Rural and Regional Areas
Rural areas may have fewer psychologists per 100,000 people. Telehealth and digital support services can provide vital support to residents of remote communities.
Step-by-Step: How to Access Support Without a GP Referral
Many people who want to access support think they must see a GP first. But that’s not always true.
Here’s how you can access support directly:
- Contact your local Medicare Mental Health Centre.
- Call a state mental health line.
- Reach out to Headspace if you’re aged 12–25.
- Use approved digital services.
- Contact community-based wellbeing support programs.
These services provide information, help you build practical skills, and offer counselling. They can also provide a referral if needed.
Digital and Telehealth Mental Health Services
Online support is a vital part of mental health care in Australia. Especially for people living in remote parts of the country with no local centres nearby. Some of the options available to you include:
- MindSpot (free online treatment programs)
- Beyond Blue online chat
- eheadspace for young people
- Free guided digital support programs
Support for Specific Age Groups
Mental health can be very complex, and different groups may need different types of support. Here is an overview of some of the more specialised help available.
Young People (12–25)
Headspace centres provide counselling and mental health and wellbeing support. Many programs focus on tackling wellbeing early.
Rural and Remote Australians
There are several telehealth services and rural-based clinicians who can provide you with free service local support.
Multicultural Communities
You can access the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) to receive mental health support in your first language. Many services offer culturally safe spaces and interpreters who can help you communicate your concerns more easily.
LGBTQIA+ Community
Several services provide inclusive mental health support that specialises in helping LGBTQIA+ people living with unique challenges.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Across Australia, community-controlled health services offer culturally appropriate care.
What to Expect: Your First Mental Health Appointment
For many Australians, a big barrier to accessing mental health support is not knowing what to expect. Let’s address that now.
Generally speaking, at your first appointment, a health professional will:
- Ask about your concerns
- Talk about your mental health and wellbeing
- Ask about your life, stress levels, and support systems
- Discuss possible treatment options
This is nothing more than a conversation. It is not a test. And there’s no right or wrong thing to say. You are free to talk about depression, trauma, stress, or anything affecting your life.
Indeed, if you’re worried about anything, it’s okay to say so.
If You’re Supporting Someone Else
If you’re a parent, carer, or family member supporting someone with mental health concerns, there is help available for you too.
For example, you can:
- Seek advice from a GP
- Contact various crisis support services
- Access carer-specific resources
- Use headspace family programs
Supporting someone else can be emotionally heavy. So, it is essential to make sure you also have your own support.
Cost and Medicare Coverage Explained
Another major barrier that prevents people from accessing local mental health help is the perceived cost of doing so. However, as mentioned, many services are free to use. This includes:
- Crisis lines
- Digital services
- Medicare Mental Health Centres
In addition, some GP appointments are fully or partially covered by Medicare. You may also be entitled to up to 10 subsidised psychology sessions per year under a Mental Health Care Plan.
Some providers bulk-bill. Others may charge a gap fee. If you don’t have a Medicare card, you may still be able to access certain community or state-funded services.
If cost is stopping you from seeking help, please ask the service provider about bulk billing or low-cost options when you first contact them.
But, please, do contact them.
