Dealing with a terminal or chronic illness that limits your quality of life and/or life expectancy, is a challenge. Experiencing the death of a loved one or sharing details about their death can also be upsetting. Sometimes emotions surface immediately, sometimes this comes much later.
Many benefit from seeking support so here's a list that might help you find the right support for you.
Counselling
Your GP
Your GP can be a very valuable partner and can refer you to a local counsellor.
Australia Counselling - 1300 855 148
Australia Counselling was created as a resource for all Australians to connect with counsellors and therapists in their local area.
HealthDirect - 1800 022 222
This is a government-funded service that provides health information, including local service providers as GPs, psychologists, counsellors etc.
Lifeline - 13 11 14
MensLine Australia - 1300 789 978
Quest for Life Foundation - 1300 941 488
The Quest for Life Foundation provides practical skills and strategies for people to create peace and resilience in their lives.
ReachOut.com
ReachOut.com is a web-based service that provides practical tools and support to young people.
Relationships Australia - 1300 364 277
Support the Dying
Support for terminally ill and those caring for them.
End-of-Life Doulas
Providing emotional support, resources, education and companionship.
Support Groups
Please connect with any of the organisations listed below to find out about your local support group.
Alzheimer's Australia - 1800 100 500
Cancer Council Australia - 13 11 20
CPL Disability Support - 1800 943 655
Heart Foundation - 1300 36 27 87
Huntington's Disease
- NSW - 1800 244 735
- QLD - 07 3435 4300
- SA & NT - 0424 062 121
- TAS - 03 6431 3404
- VIC - 1800 063 501
- WA - 08 6457 7599
Independence Australia - 1300 704 456
Kidney Health Information Service - 1800 454 363
Australian Lung Foundation - 1800 654 301
Motor Neurone Disease Association - 1800 777 175
Multiple Sclerosis Society Australia - 1800 042 138
Muscular Dystrophy Association - 03 9320 9555
Palliative Care Australia - 02 6232 0700
Parkinson's Australia - 1800 644 189
Rare Voices Australia - 0497 003 104
Please check here for an extensive list of support groups for less common diseases.
Stroke Foundation - 1800 787 653
Suicide Helplines
If you have suicidal thoughts, please know you are not alone and help is available. Click here to see a list of organisations.