At The Australian Women’s Weekly, we understand that some of the stories we share can touch on difficult or emotional topics such as grief, trauma, family violence or body image. If reading or viewing or listening something has brought up strong feelings, or you are worried about yourself or someone you love, you do not have to face it alone. Help and support services are available.
Below is a list of free, confidential support services across Australia.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger
Call 000 (triple zero) for emergency services.
Mental health and emotional support services
- Lifeline — 13 11 14
24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention. You can also chat online at lifeline.org.au - Beyond Blue — 1300 22 4636
24/7 support for anxiety, depression and emotional distress. Webchat available via beyondblue.org.au - 13YARN — 13 92 76
24/7 national crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who are feeling overwhelmed or having a tough time. Staffed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis supporters who listen with understanding, without judgement, and in a culturally safe space. Visit 13yarn.org.au - Suicide Call Back Service — 1300 659 467
Free phone and online counselling for people at risk of suicide, concerned about someone, or bereaved by suicide. - QLife — 1800 184 527
Anonymous, LGBTIQA+ peer support and counselling from 3pm to midnight every day. Visit qlife.org.au
Family and domestic violence support
- 1800RESPECT — 1800 737 732
24/7 counselling, information and support for anyone experiencing or at risk of domestic, family or sexual violence.
Visit 1800respect.org.au - Men’s Referral Service — 1300 766 491
Support for men concerned about their behaviour or experiencing relationship challenges.
Visit ntv.org.au - Kids Helpline — 1800 55 1800
24/7 counselling and online chat for young people aged 5 to 25.
Visit kidshelpline.com.au
Body image and eating disorder support
If you are struggling with food, exercise or body image, you are not alone. These services offer free, confidential help and information.
- Butterfly Foundation — 1800 33 4673
24/7 national helpline for anyone experiencing an eating disorder or body image concern, as well as their families and carers.
Chat or email via butterfly.org.au - Eating Disorders Victoria — 1300 550 236
Support, information and referrals for anyone affected by eating disorders or negative body image.
Visit eatingdisorders.org.au
Grief, trauma and other specialist support
- Griefline — 1300 845 745
Support for anyone experiencing loss, grief or loneliness.
Visit griefline.org.au - Blue Knot Foundation — 1300 657 380
Support for adult survivors of childhood trauma and abuse.
Visit blueknot.org.au - SANE Australia — 1800 187 263
Support for people living with complex mental health issues and their families.
Visit sane.org
If you are outside Australia
Find international hotlines and support services at findahelpline.com, a global directory of free crisis helplines.
You are not alone
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. If you or someone you know needs support, please connect with one of the services above. The Weekly will continue to share stories of courage, recovery and hope, and we encourage you to take care of yourself while reading.
