Resources

For some of us the hardest step is the first step. For others they are so psychologically unwell they do not realize their level of unwellness or they endeavor to mask the magnitude of their symptoms. I did not want to bother anyone or create upheaval for my children when i first became unwell. But in truth my level of mental unwellness was already evident and the children were in the line of fire anyway. How could they not be! The enormity of my mental illness only came when i casually made an admission to a doctor during consultation for a less important malady !The people closest to me may have been suspicious, but 25 years ago the mental health industry was far less efficient or effective than today. Resources were thin on the ground and not loudly advertised. Australia and New Zealand (i hope) have built an improved and improving mental health system with greater ease of access and education within our communities! Ease of access is facilitated by the expanding list of resources when you enter ‘mental health’, ‘mental illness, psychosis or any illness or symptom associated with mental illness!

Mental Health Resources

Australia

Crisis Support

Lifeline 13 11 14

Beyond Blue; Anxiety, Depression and Suicide Prevention

Sane Australia 1800 187 263 Mon-Frid 10am-8pm

Mental Health Crisis Hotline; https://www.askadoctor.help or numerous other crisis hotlines.

Mental Health (Psychiatric) services in your area

Visit nearest hospital emergency for crisis intervention

Local G.P during business hours.

For general support

Better Help offers -Therapy-Phone, Video or Live Text Services

Head to Health; Phone 1800 595 212 for professional mental health support.

Psychologists are available through many local community centre’s though are in high demand

Private options are available depending on financial constraints.

Surf the net for all other options

New Zealand

Crisis

Lifeline 0800 543 354 (0800 (LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP)

Suicide Crisis Helpline 0508 828 865 (TAUTOKO)

Youth line 0800 376 633 or free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz

Samaritans 0800 726 666

Helplines| Mental Health Foundation free call or text 1737 for support any time via trained counsellor.

For ongoing mental health support ask your G.P, ask a friend or access the net for services in your area.

Do NOT try to go it alone!