Mental health in rural and remote Australia

Education only. This page gives general information. It does not replace advice from your doctor. If you are worried about a symptom, see your general practitioner or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222. In an emergency, call 000.

Why it matters

Distance from family and friends, raising children far from support, drought, fire, flood and financial stress can all weigh on mental health. Midlife hormone changes can add to it. You are not alone, and it is not a weakness to ask for help.

Signs to watch for

Feeling flat, hopeless or numb most days
Worry that will not switch off
Poor sleep or sleeping much more than usual
Pulling away from people
Drinking more to cope

Where to get help

Talk to your general practitioner about a mental health treatment plan, which gives Medicare funded sessions, including by telehealth
Ask about mental health nurses and counsellors who visit or call remote areas
Call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14, any time
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can call 13YARN on 13 92 76
Rural Aid offers free counselling for people on the land

If you are in danger

Call 000 now.

Talk to us

Our free workshops cover this and more, in plain language, with time for questions. See our programmes or get support.