Anyone can find themselves struggling with their mental health. Queensland's public health system has many supports available to provide treatment and care. There are also online and phone supports available from government and non-government providers.
At our best, humans experience joy, love, and a sense of purpose. We feel energised, resilient, and motivated to realise our full potential. But this ideal state isn’t constant.
There are times when we may feel persistent sadness, overwhelming anxiety, or even experience thoughts of self-harm. In trying to cope, some people may turn to substances like drugs or alcohol.
These experiences don’t make anyone weak, unusual, or flawed—they’re signs that our mental health needs attention and support.
Mental health in Australia
In Australia, 1 in 5 people aged 16 to 85 years will experience a mental illness such as depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder.
Life events like trauma, grief, or sudden loss can also trigger mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or prolonged grief disorder.
You are not alone – support in Queensland
Queensland has a range of services ready to help anyone struggling with their mental health.
Whether you’re finding it hard to cope, need someone to talk to, or are facing a crisis, support is available—and you will be heard and accepted.
Taking the first step can feel daunting, but it can also be a powerful beginning toward better mental wellbeing.
In a mental health crisis
A mental health crisis occurs when a person feels overwhelmed by emotions, stress or trauma, which may lead to harmful thoughts or actions.
Immediate help is available:
- Triple Zero (000) – For emergencies
- 1300 MHCALL (1300 642 255) – 24/7 mental health access line
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 – 24/7 support
- 13 YARN – 24/7 support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Nearest hospital Emergency Department
Crisis Support Spaces
While emergency departments are essential, they may not always be the best environment for someone experiencing a mental health crisis.
Most Hospital and Health Services in Queensland offer Crisis Support Spaces—calm, non-clinical environments designed for people aged 18 years and over who are in distress.
These spaces offer:
- comfortable, quiet areas away from hospital settings
- access to peer workers and mental health clinicians
- a personalised support plan to help prevent future crises
To find your nearest Crisis Support Space, visit the Queensland Health website or call 1300 MHCALL.
If you’re struggling but not in crisis
A good first step is talking to your General Practitioner (GP). GPs are trained to:
- assess your mental health
- discuss what you're experiencing
- develop a Mental Health Care Plan to connect you with support services, such as psychologists or counsellors
Medicare Mental Health Services
The Australian Government provides access to free, quality mental health care over extended hours.
You can access:
- Medicare Mental Health Centres for face-to-face support
- Medicare Mental Health phone service 1800 595 212 (8.30 am – 5.00 pm weekdays)
Helplines and digital supports
For many, phone or online support is a more comfortable option—and it can be just as effective as face-to-face care. Both Queensland Health’s 1300 MHCALL line and Medicare Mental Health phone service can connect people with a range of services and resources that can support individuals looking for advice, information or referral for themselves or for someone they support.
Additionally:
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 – or chat to a counsellor online.
- headspace - 12-25 year olds can join group chats of talk to a professional online or by contacting 1800 650 890.
Take your time
Mental health recovery is not a race. Everyone’s journey is different, and there is no single “right” path or timeline. Strengthening your mental wellbeing is as important as improving your physical health.
The Queensland Government website, Dear mind, has lots of ideas for activities and links to resources to support strengthening mental wellbeing.
If you or someone you care about is in crisis, immediate help is available—and ongoing support is too.
If you're unsure where to begin, visit the Queensland Government’s How to Get Help website to explore your options and take the first step toward support.