First steps to get help

Almost 1 in 4 people will have some experience of mental illness in their life.

But mental illness is treatable and there are lots of ways to get help.

If you are worried about yourself or a loved one, start here.

If it’s urgent

If you think someone could hurt themselves or others, get urgent help.

Call emergency services 

Dial triple zero (000) in Australia or triple one (111) in New Zealand.

Call Lifeline

Dial 13 11 14 in Australia or 0800 543 354 in New Zealand.

Go to a hospital emergency department

At the emergency department, you will be seen first by an emergency doctor. Then, if needed, you will talk to a psychiatrist or other mental health professional. 

Find a mental health crisis team

Mental health crisis teams (sometimes called crisis and assessment teams or CAT teams) provide urgent treatment and support for people in mental health crisis. Treatment is often in your home.

In Australia, call your closest major hospital or local council to access the mental health crisis team in your area.

In New Zealand, find a local crisis team

If it’s not urgent

Do you feel that something isn't right? Are you:

You could just be having a bad week. But if the symptoms are severe, or if they go on for a long time you should seek help.

If you are:

• hurting yourself on purpose
• behaving in a very different or unusual way
• seeing or hearing things that aren't there (hallucinations).

These are more serious symptoms. You should get help right away.

Start talking

Talking about what's bothering you is a good way to start dealing with a mental health issue.

Find a trusted family or whānau member, friend or health professional who will take time to listen to you.

See your GP (family doctor)

Seeing a GP is a good first step if you’re worried. A GP can help you work out what's happening and how to deal with it.

It can be difficult to bring up mental health issues at an appointment, but remember you’re not alone. In fact, depression is one of the most common illnesses GPs treat.

If needed, a GP can refer you on for further treatment by a psychiatrist or psychologist.

Mental health professionals: who's who?

Try counselling services

Speak to a counsellor – over the telephone, online or in person. There are free 24-hour services available. You will speak to someone who understands what you're going through.

Online services and support

There are a range of websites that provide information, advice and links to support groups if you are experiencing a mental health issue.

Head to Health is the Australian Government portal for mental health information.

healthNZ is the New Zealand government page providing information about mental health

Other mental health support services