When life feels overwhelming, knowing where to turn for support can be one of the hardest parts of the journey.
The good news is that people living in Brisbane North have access to free, confidential mental health and wellbeing support through the Medicare Mental Health phone service, delivered by Neami National and funded by Brisbane North PHN.
Whether you’re experiencing a mental health challenge yourself, feeling stressed or overwhelmed, looking for advice, or supporting a family member or friend, help is available without the need for a referral or appointment. (Neami National)
A Simple Way to Access Mental Health Support
Sometimes the mental health system can feel confusing to navigate, especially when you’re already struggling. The Medicare Mental Health phone service is designed to make it easier.
When you call, you’ll speak with experienced mental health professionals or lived experience team member who can listen to your concerns and help connect you with the most appropriate support for your situation. This may include Medicare Mental Health services or other free and low-cost mental health providers in your local area.
The service can assist people who are:
- Experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or emotional distress
- Looking for information about mental health support options
- Supporting a loved one who may be struggling
- Seeking guidance on where to go next for help
- Looking for mental health and wellbeing support
Support Without Barriers
One of the most valuable aspects of the service is its accessibility.
The Medicare Mental Health phone service is completely free, and you don’t need a referral from a GP to access support. It’s available to everyone, including people who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents.
This means you can reach out as soon as you feel you need support, rather than waiting for appointments or navigating complex referral pathways.
More Than a Phone Call
This service is part of a broader commitment by Neami National to improve mental health and wellbeing outcomes for individuals and communities across Australia.
Neami National supports people to achieve the wellbeing outcomes that matter most to them. Through mental health support services, community connection programs, mental health hubs, homelessness support initiatives and suicide prevention programs, the organisation works to help people build meaningful, connected and fulfilling lives.
When You Need Immediate Help
It’s important to note that the Medicare Mental Health phone service is not a crisis line. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency or requires urgent assistance, immediate support is available.
Queenslanders can contact the 24-hour specialist mental healthcare service, 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255), which provides confidential mental health triage, advice, support and referral to public mental health services across Queensland.
In an emergency, always call 000.
Contact Information
Medicare Mental Health Phone Service
- Phone: 1800 595 212
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm
- Cost: Free
- Referral Required: No
- Appointment Required: No
- For more information visit: Neami National
Queensland 24-Hour Mental Health Support
- 1300 MH CALL: 1300 642 255
- Available: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you’re unsure where to start, making a simple phone call could be the first step towards finding the right support for you or someone you care about.
