If you have been through a similar experience, you are more likely to experience mental health problems and illnesses like depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, troubled sleep patterns and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). These are natural responses to a distressing situation that you have encountered. However, it is important to seek help if you experience suicidal thoughts or your depressed moods persist and are affecting you, interfering with your day-to-day activities as well as affecting those around you.
Whether you have just arrived in Australia or you have been here for many years, you can seek help for all mental health issues that you may have experienced in Australia or before your arrival.
There are many helplines that provide a confidential and safe space for you to talk and to access professional counselling. Some of these services are provided for free, while others have the option of bulk billing if you have Medicare card. If you need an interpreter, most services can arrange this. You can also ask your GP about these services or see this page on our website:
If you are experiencing a personal crisis or thinking about suicide, call Lifeline on
13 11 14. It is a free and confidential telephone service that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.