Urgent mental health support and assistance
The Wellbeing Hub is not a crisis support or referral service. There are many organisations ready to assist when someone needs urgent support.
If anyone’s life is in immediate danger, call emergency services on triple zero (000) or visit the closest hospital Emergency Department (both 24-hr services)
Telephone counselling services
Mental health support services are available in Victoria – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Helplines are a great resource if you (or someone you know) struggle with mental health issues. These services can provide you with information, tools and advice.
| Service | Focus | Phone number / chat link |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeline | Australia-wide crisis support and suicide prevention service | 13 11 14 |
| Lifeline chat | Short-term support for people who are feeling overwhelmed and having difficulty coping or staying safe | lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/ |
| SuicideLine | Support for people at risk of suicide, concerned about someone at risk, bereaved by suicide and people experiencing emotional or mental health issues | 1300 651 251 |
| Suicide Call Back Service | For people having suicidal thoughts or for family or friends affected by suicide | 1300 659 467 |
| Beyond Blue | Support for issues relating to anxiety and depression, including mental wellbeing support for COVID-19 | 1300 22 4636 |
| 1800RESPECT | Support for people affected by sexual assault, or domestic and family violence and abuse | 1800 737 732 |
| Kids Helpline | Free counselling for young people between the ages of 5 and 25 | 1800 551 800 |
Translation and relay services
| Service | Focus | Phone number |
|---|---|---|
| Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) | Free translation support for people with English as a second language | 13 14 50 |
| National Relay Service | Helps callers with a hearing or speech difficulties to communicate by phone | Voice relay number TTY number |
Talking to your doctor (GP) about mental health
Your GP is a good place to start for most questions about mental health. You can visit in person or use telehealth appointments via phone or video. Doctors can provide treatment or refer you to other mental health services. They can also help you make a mental health treatment plan. Having a plan lets you access sessions with a psychologist.
Medicare covers 10 extra psychology sessions (a total of 20 sessions per calendar year until the end of 2022) for people affected by COVID-19.
Find out more about mental health services available through Medicare on the Services Australia website.