Reach out if you need to talk

I saw this quote in a story about Lifeline recently, and it really got me thinking:

“People usually open up and share what’s troubling them, but not before belittling their issue. For anyone who might be thinking about reaching out – never discount your issue. If something is troubling you, well done for doing something about it.”

Ruben Mackellar, Lifeline Crisis Support Counsellor

There are lots of reasons why we are reluctant to reach out, even if we really need to talk. We think services are busy, and other people need help more. Right now though, Australia’s telephone support services have been boosted so they can help more people.  

We also think we should be able to manage on our own, but that just denies us the fresh perspective and the support of others. Sometimes we worry that talking about what is troubling us will make us feel worse but mostly, the opposite is true.

There are a range of government funded services that are ready to listen and help you take your next steps.

Lifeline 13 11 44 (24 hours)

Lifeline can help if you are experiencing a personal crisis. lifeline.org.au

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 (24 hours)

Everyone experiences the ups and downs of mental health. But what happens when it’s down? Beyond Blue provides practical help with depression and anxiety beyondblue.org.au

Relationships Australia 1300 364 277

Support services helping individuals, families and communities build positive and respectful relationships. relationships.org.au

1800 Respect 1800 737 732 (24 hours)

Violence and abuse can happen in any kind of relationship. It’s never okay. Whether it's learning about ways to make yourself safer or taking a step in a new direction, 1800 Respect can help. 1800respect.org.au

Mensline 1300 78 99 78 (24 hours)

If you’re worried about your emotions, behaviour, relationship or family problems, call Mensline. mensline.org.au

Carer’s Gateway 1800 422 737

Connecting with their telephone counselling and coaching services will get you thinking about how you are going, how you’d like things to be and what can help make that happen. Carer’s Gateway can also help you plan for emergencies and access respite in an emergency. The emergency respite service is available 24 hours. carergateway.gov.au

Quitline 13 78 48

Contacting Quitline increases your chance of stopping smoking, and staying stopped. quitnow.gov.au

StrokeLine 1800 787 653

StrokeLine’s health professionals provide information and advice on stroke prevention, treatment and recovery. Our team can help you to find the support and services you need, whether you are a stroke survivor, carer or family member.

StrokeLine’s practical, free and confidential advice will help you manage your health better and live well.

StrokeLine is here Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, Australian Eastern Standard Time. You can also email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au

Jude from StrokeLine