Mental Health Rights Manual
An online guide to help explain your legal and human rights in the mental health and human services systems in New South Wales.
Read moreRecovery Oriented Language Guide
Words are important. The language we use and the stories we tell have great significance to all involved.
See the guide
In an emergency where you or someone you know is in immediate danger or at risk of harm call Triple Zero (000).
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental distress there are support services who can help.
13 11 14
lifeline.org.au
Operates nationally, 24/7
Contact Lifeline if you are having a personal crisis, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or worried about a friend or family member and need immediate help.
1800 011 511
Operates in New South Wales, 24/7
The Mental Health Line provides 24 hour mental health connection and referral services and is staffed by mental health professionals. Directly link with local mental health services, and to mental health services in other regions throughout NSW.
13 92 76
13YARN.org.au
Operates nationally, 24/7
13YARN is a one-on-one over the phone support service for its Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people in crisis. The service is staffed by trained Lifeline Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters for mob who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping.
1300 659 467
suicidecallbackservice.org.au
Operates nationally, 24/7
If you’re contemplating suicide, or experiencing suicidal thoughts – this service will have you in touch with a professional counsellor immediately no matter where you are in Australia. They operate 24/7 and you can call, use video chat, or chat online. They also offer resources covering issues relating to suicide, including grief.
1300 224 636
beyondblue.org.au
Operates nationally, 24/7
Free phone counselling, anonymous online forums and confidential support services are open 24/7 for everyone in Australia.
1800 737 732
1800respect.org.au
Operates nationally, 24/7
Confidential information, counselling and support service. Open 24/7 to support people impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence and abuse.
1300 789 978
mensline.org.au
Operates nationally, 24/7
MensLine Australia is a free telephone and online counselling service offering support for Australian men anywhere, anytime.
1800 55 1800
kidshelpline.com.au
Operates nationally, 24/7
Kids Help Line is a free helpline for children and young people aged 5 to 18. Phone counselling is available 24/7. If you’re not sure about talking to someone on the phone, or can’t get to a phone, you can use web counselling or email for less urgent contact.
1300 766 491
ntv.org.au
Operates 24/7 in New South Wales and Tasmania. For all other states and territories, Monday to Friday 8am – 9pm, Saturday to Sunday 10am – 3pm.
A telephone counselling, information and referral service for men who are using controlling behaviour towards a partner or family member.
1800 184 527
qlife.org.au
Operates nationally, 3:00pm to midnight, 7 days
QLife provides anonymous and free LGBTI peer support and referral for people in Australia wanting to talk about sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships. Webchat option also available.
1800 187 263
sane.org
Operates nationally, Monday to Friday 10am – 10pm
A national freecall helpline providing information, advice and referral to anyone concerned about mental illness.
1300 845 745
griefline.org.au
Operates nationally, 12pm – 3am, 7 days
GriefLine is Australia’s only dedicated grief telephone helpline service that provides counselling support services free of charge to individuals and families who are experiencing loss and grief. The service operates for 15 hours each day from 12 noon to 3am, 105 hours a week, 365 days a year.
A support site for young people focusing on everything from everyday issues like friendship crises to the heavy stuff such as bullying, relationships, and identity.
0410 539 905
aboriginalcounsellingservices.com.au
A non-government organisation that provides crisis intervention and therapeutic counselling for families, individuals and communities within New South Wales. Aboriginal Counselling Services support and assist Aboriginal people in dealing with issues such as grief and loss, alcohol and other drug use, gambling, financial hardship, family violence, sexual abuse and self-harm. They aim to provide services that are sensitive and culturally appropriate.
A comprehensive list of mental health services available in New South Wales including online services.
A comprehensive, free online database of mental health and community services in NSW. The Directory contains up-to-date information on 6000 services in NSW together with explanation of mental health jargon, fact sheets, legislation, government programs and where to get help.
