Helplines in New South Wales, Australia.

Free, immediate crisis counseling support in New South Wales, Australia

Whether you're experiencing a mental health crisis or you're worried about a loved one's mental health, free help is available to you. In New South Wales, Australia, there are 2 helplines that support with a range of mental health or behavioral health concerns.

It’s normal to feel nervous about making the call. Learn here about what to expect.

What are helplines or hotlines?

A helpline is a free, confidential counseling service available to anyone experiencing difficulties in their mental health, or worried about the mental health of someone they know. They are sometimes known as crisis lines or hotlines, and offer support over the phone, text message or chat. Some are available 24/7.

How will a helpline or hotline support me?

Helpline responders support you by listening to you, helping you understand your emotions better, and working with you on a plan forward. Having a plan about what to do next can help you feel more in control.

Who will I talk to when I contact a helpline?

Helpline responders are often volunteers or counselors. They might also be peers who have had a similar life experience to the issue the helpline supports with. They are commonly trained in active listening and crisis counseling.

What topics do helplines and hotlines assist with?

Some helplines support with specific issues, such as suicide, depression, anxiety, and abuse. Others support with specific demographics, such as the LGBTQ+ community, veterans or young people. So if you're looking for tailored support, you might be able to find a hotline specific to your problem. There are also helplines that support with any problem that’s causing you distress – no matter how small or big it seems to you.

What is a suicide hotline?

Most countries have a suicide hotline or suicide prevention line (often called a lifeline or crisis line) available 24/7. These helplines provide compassionate support for people who might be having feelings of wanting to die or kill themselves. Commonly, suicide hotlines will also support anyone, regardless of what they are going through.

Will a helpline talk to me about someone I'm concerned about?

Yes. If you are concerned about someone you care about, you can contact a helpline for advice and support. The helpline representative will discuss possible ways for you to support the person, such as support systems the person can use, as well as behaviors or steps you can do to help.

I'm in New South Wales, Australia. What hotlines and helplines are available to me?

In New South Wales, Australia, there are 2 hotlines and helplines that support with a range of topics.

The first helpline was set up in 1953. Today, there are over 2,000 helplines supporting with a wide variety of issues, experiences and demographics. Their shared desire to assist those going through emotional or mental distress binds them together. No matter what your problem is, talking to someone can help and helplines provide this vital service, for free.