Reasons to seek help

It can be hard to know when you should seek help for a mental health issue. A good place to start is to get advice from your GP. Getting help early can make a difference. In an emergency call 000 or visit your local Emergency Department.

Reasons to seek help: ^1 2 3 

• When your persistent thoughts, emotions or behaviours are affecting your relationships, work or sense of mental health and wellbeing;
• If you are finding it hard to deal with life’s challenges – such as a major illness, the loss of a loved one, parenting, relationship difficulties or problems at work;
• If you have been feeling down, sad, or anxious and these feelings are not going away after a few weeks;
• If you have noticed you have low energy and lack motivation to do the things you normally do;
• When the use of alcohol or other drugs interferes with your health, emotions, relationships, finances, job or your ability to fulfil your daily responsibilities;¹
• Family and friends say they have noticed a change in your behaviour;
• If you are feeling ashamed or embarrassed to speak to someone close to you about how you are really feeling; 
• If you believe it is too late to get help because it seems things have gone too far;
• When you are having suicidal thoughts or if you are worried you might hurt yourself or someone else, there are several things you can do:
  • if it is an emergency call 000.
  • talk to someone you trust and ask for their help.
  • call a support line such as:
    • Mental Health Emergency Response Line – 1300 555 788 (Metro) or 1800 676 822 (Peel)
    • Rurallink – 1800 522 002
    • Lifeline – 13 11 14
    • MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
    • Kids Helpline (5 to 25 year olds) 1800 55 1800
    • beyondblue: 1300 224 626
    • Suicide call back service: 1300 659 467
  • seek help from your GP; and
  • look at the Self-help for suicidal feelings tip sheet.

Don’t let embarrassment prevent you from seeking help at times when you are upset or feeling down. Getting help early can make a difference.

Content last updated: 15 May 2017