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Counselling
There may be instances when you or the person you care for will need counselling in relation to drug or alcohol problems, depression or bereavement.
If so, don’t be afraid to ask for it. Speak to your doctor, your community health centre or your community mental health centre about counselling services – or for immediate help contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. Lifeline provides 24-hour telephone counselling services for the cost of a local call. This is available through Lifeline Centres across Australia. They also offer face-to-face counselling services in many Lifeline Centres. Types of services and counselling service themes vary from one centre to another based on the specific needs of each regional or local area.
Read more: About mental health
National Carer Counselling Program (NCCP) (more information)
The National Carer Counselling Program provides short-term counselling and emotional and psychological support services for carers. This aims to help reduce carer stress, improve carer coping skills and facilitate, wherever appropriate, continuation of the caring role. The NCCP is delivered through the Network of Carer Associations in each state and territory. For information contact 1800 200 422.Carer support groups
Carer support groups provide emotional support to carers. They can also be a safe place to talk about feelings such as anger and resentment. Whatever your situation, there’s a support group you can join to meet other carers with similar experiences and to hear how they’ve coped. For information contact 1800 200 422 (free call) during business hours. You can also contact the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) (more information) on 13 14 50 (for the cost of a local call) if you need assistance in a language other than English. TIS will connect you to the 1800 200 422 number and interpret for you.Grief and loss
Good Grief can help people experiencing grief to cope with the effects of significant loss by building coping strategies, self-esteem and a sense of personal achievement. You can also contact the National Association for Loss and Grief (NALAG) for help.Read more: About grief, loss and support