Theres always mental health support available to you
At Haven Therapy, we deeply care about your mental health and well-being, but it’s important to know that we do not provide crisis support services. If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis, immediate and specialized support is crucial. Below, we’ve compiled essential information about the national crisis support services available in Australia and how to access help when you need it most.
What Is a Crisis?
A crisis can look different for everyone, but generally, it’s any situation where you feel overwhelmed, unsafe, or unable to cope. This can include experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, feeling emotionally distressed, or dealing with the impact of trauma, abuse, or significant loss.
No matter the situation, reaching out for help is a brave and important step.
Key Crisis Support Services in Australia
Below is a list of trusted crisis support services available across Australia. These organizations are available 24/7 to help guide you through distressing moments.
000 Emergency Services
What they do: For emergencies requiring immediate assistance (such as someone at risk of harming themselves or others).
Contact: 000 (police, ambulance, or fire department).
What they do: Lifeline offers confidential crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Contact: 13 11 14 (Available 24/7)
Web Chat: Available via www.lifeline.org.au for online text-based support.
What they do: Beyond Blue provides mental health support for those experiencing anxiety, depression, and related conditions.
Contact: 1300 22 4636 (Available 24/7)
Online Support: Chat available via www.beyondblue.org.au
Kids Helpline (for young people aged 5-25)
What they do: Provides support specifically for children, teenagers, and young adults.
Contact: 1800 55 1800 (Available 24/7)
Web Chat: www.kidshelpline.com.au
What they do: Professional support for anyone affected by suicide, including people experiencing thoughts of suicide, those worried about someone else, or those grieving a loss.
Contact: 1300 659 467 (Available 24/7)
Online Support: www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au
1800RESPECT (National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service)
What they do: Offers support for anyone impacted by domestic violence or sexual assault.
Contact: 1800 737 732 (Available 24/7)
Online Support: www.1800respect.org.au
Headspace (for young people aged 12-25)
What they do: Provides mental health support for young people, particularly for anxiety, depression, or life stressors.
Contact: Visit www.headspace.org.au for local centres and online support.
What to Expect When You Contact Crisis Support
Reaching out to a crisis service can feel daunting if you don’t know what to expect. Here’s what typically happens when you contact these services:
Phone Calls: A trained support worker or counsellor will listen to you without judgment and help you develop a plan for immediate safety and support.
Web Chat and Text Services: These allow you to communicate discreetly via your computer or phone if speaking aloud feels too difficult.
Immediate Help: If the situation is life-threatening, the service will guide you on contacting emergency services or may contact them for you if required.
How to Support Someone in Crisis
If someone you know is experiencing a crisis, it’s important to offer calm and compassionate support:
Listen: Sometimes, the best thing you can do is simply listen without offering advice or judgment.
Encourage Help: Gently encourage them to contact a crisis service or professional support.
Know When to Call Emergency Services: If someone’s life is at risk, don’t hesitate to call 000 for immediate help.
Self-Care After a Crisis
Whether you’ve experienced a crisis yourself or supported someone through theirs, self-care afterward is crucial. Take time to rest, talk to someone you trust, and seek ongoing support if you need it.
How Haven Therapy Co Can Support You
While we don’t provide immediate crisis support, we’re here to walk alongside you in your longer-term mental health journey. Once you feel safe and ready, counselling can be a valuable tool to help you process difficult emotions, build resilience, and develop strategies to navigate life’s challenges.
If you’re looking for ongoing support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We offer flexible counselling options, including telehealth and outdoor sessions, designed to fit into your life.
Remember, you’re not alone, and help is always available.
