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SANE Australia

SANE offers a range of free digital and telehealth support services for people over 18 years of age with complex mental health needs, and their family, friends and carers. They also provide mental health support to people with intellectual disability, autism or acquired brain injury.

Vision and mission

Making space for complex mental health.

How SANE can help

They offer different types and levels of support, so you can find what works for you. Choose from a range of FREE complex mental health supports, including counselling, peer support, online groups and events, 24/7 community forums, and online information and resources.

Information lines / help lines

Programs

  • Reach out by phone: Mental Health Support Workers are here to help you access SANE’s free services based on your needs, navigate the mental health system and find the right support for you.
  • Call 1800 187 263, Mon-Fri, 10am-8pm (AEDT/AEST). Translating and Interpreting Service, call 131 450.

  • Community Forums: Available 24/7. Connect with people who understand what you are going through, seek advice and surround yourself with support. They're safe and anonymous.

  • Guided Recovery: Available Monday to Friday, 10am to 8pm (AEDT/AEST). A 15-week program for people wanting individual guidance and support with their mental health recovery. Includes 6 appointments with a dedicated counsellor or peer support worker and access to online groups.

  • Mental Health Recovery Webinars: Last Wednesday of every month, 7-8pm (AEDT/AEST). Monthly community webinars with new topics and guests, including lived experience advocates and subject matter experts.

  • Information and Resources: Available 24/7. Access information you can trust on complex mental health issues. SANE factsheets and guides are easy to read and can help you understand what’s happening and what strategies can be helpful.

  • Guidance for supporting someone at risk of suicide: Available 24/7. A resource that provides information and advice about supporting someone who has attempted, or is at risk of attempting, suicide.

Recommended links

This information was originally published on healthdirect - SANE Australia.

Last reviewed: May 2025

Information from this partner

Found 48 results

Feeling like a burden? | Better Off With You

If you’re feeling like what’s been going on in your life is weighing heavily on those around you, you’re not alone.

Read more on SANE Australia website

Stories | Better Off With You

Meet local people who thought about ending their lives, and discover how they found a way through. Even if your circumstance can’t change immediately, your life matters to your loved ones and your community.

Read more on SANE Australia website

I'm having suicidal thoughts | Better Off With You

Below you’ll find information to understand, identify and manage suicidal thoughts. If you feel like your life may be in immediate danger or you have made plans to take your life, please reach out for support now. Talk to a trusted family member, friend or health professional. Other options are to get in touch with Lifeline by calling 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

Read more on SANE Australia website

Support information | Better Off With You

Whether you need to talk about your own struggles or get advice on supporting someone else, there are people ready to listen. Learn more about local and national services that can help.

Read more on SANE Australia website

I’m worried about someone | Better Off With You

People tell us that it was really difficult to ask someone they care about if they were having thoughts of suicide, but they never regretted it. Look out for changes in their physical or emotional behaviour, and consider whether they've recently experienced any major life changes. Be aware of the warning signs and start a conversation with them about things you’ve noticed.

Read more on SANE Australia website

Antidepressant medication

SANE Australia, the National Mental Health Charity

Read more on SANE Australia website

Antipsychotic medication

SANE Australia, the National Mental Health Charity

Read more on SANE Australia website

Anxiety disorder

SANE Australia, the National Mental Health Charity

Read more on SANE Australia website

Bipolar disorder

SANE Australia, the National Mental Health Charity

Read more on SANE Australia website

Borderline personality disorder (BPD)

BPD affects how people manage their emotions and impulses, relate to people and maintain a stable self-image. Learn more about BPD symptoms and support.

Read more on SANE Australia website

Call us and speak to a Maternal Child Health Nurse for personal advice and guidance.

Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses?

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.

This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.

The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.

Except as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, this publication or any part of it may not be reproduced, altered, adapted, stored and/or distributed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Healthdirect Australia.