Head to Health Pop Up mental health support clinics plus an intake and referral line have been established across NSW to help those whose mental health may be suffering as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
NSW Primary Health Networks (PHNs) have established the clinics and referral line in collaboration with the Department of Health (DoH) to assist the community in receiving the right care, at the right time, for mental health concerns they may be experiencing.
This initiative is an expansion of DoHs Head to Health and will create a central hub for our community and health care professionals to access services determined by a trained mental health professional.
Supporting yourself
If you’re not feeling OK, Head to Health can help direct you to the appropriate support networks.
By calling 1800 595 212, a trained mental health professional will talk to you and help direct you to an appropriate service.
A range of questions will be asked by the health professional to ensure your needs are met and appropriately identified.
Following the assessment, you could be connected to any of the recommended services, including:
- headspace
- Specialist in acute mental health services, including emergency care.
Supporting others
You may have recognised a change in behaviour in someone around you, or you are aware of someone who has a clinically diagnosed mental health condition.
Head to Health can help you, and the people you care about, find the right mental health services. You can help support someone by calling 1800 595 212.
Anyone can contact Head to Health. This includes referrals from GPs and other mental health providers, friends or family members.
Where to Head for Health
- 1800 595 212 (free call) -This is not a crisis service, contact 000 for urgent help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can contact Head to Health?
Head to Health is for all people in NSW. It is for anyone of any age, including children, young people and older adults, whose mental health is suffering because of the current pandemic. This includes people experiencing addiction, families and carers. Even if you have never sought help before, Head to Health is here for you.
What type of support can I receive from Head to Health?
In the first instance, we will talk with you about your personal concerns to identify the support you need. We will then work with you to develop a package of support services that respond to your individual situation.
Head to Health takes a holistic approach to your mental health, whether you have experienced mental ill-health in the past or if this is the first time you have reached out for support.
We’re here to help you to understand the type of support you need. We draw on our knowledge of the broad range of services available to identify what best suits your individual needs. With your consent, we can also work with your GP to ensure they are kept informed about the support services recommended for you.
How is Head to Health different from other mental health support services?
Sometimes you may know that you need support but may struggle to know what type of support is right for you. Rather than jumping straight into a service that might not suit you, it can be helpful when someone takes the time to hear your concerns and lets you know which service is right for you. Our phone line staff are like tour guides for the mental health world – they know which care options are out there, so they can hold your hand and take you to the best solution. Head to Health can also provide services onsite at 10 Pop Up locations across NSW for those who need it, as well as telehealth services.
How do I contact Head to Health?
Phone us on 1800 595 212 from 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday except for public holidays. We are not a crisis service so we operate during business hours.
For urgent support, call Lifeline 13 11 14 OR SuicideLine 1300 651 251. If you need immediate help or are at risk of harm to yourself or others call 000 now.
Is Head to Health a telehealth service only or can I meet with someone face-to-face?
Head to Health comprises the central 1800 595 212 intake, advice and referral number as well as 10 mental health hubs across NSW in established community health care settings.
The first step is to call 1800 595 212 where our team will work with you to see what you need.
Are Head to Health services free?
There is no cost for using the Head to Health central 1800 595 212 intake, advice and referral service, and if you are referred to a Head to Health Pop Up hub there is no cost for services there either. However, not everyone who contacts us will be suitable for treatment at a Head to Health Pop Up hub. If we believe you will benefit from support from another provider, where possible, we will ensure this is also a free or low-cost service if you let us know that you have financial concerns.
Will my advice and plans developed by Head to Health be shared with my GP or my other health care providers?
With your consent, we can share all or parts of any advice and plans with your GP or other health care providers. If you prefer not to have them shared with your current health providers, that is fine as well. However, we will encourage you to discuss any additional advice or support you receive from us with your GP or other health providers because coordinating your care and reducing duplication is in your best interests.
I already have a private psychologist. Can I access the Head to Health services?
Yes. However, we will ensure there is no duplication in your treatment and services you access. If you are already seeing a psychologist – or another relevant mental health professional – please advise us so we can identify the best types of services to meet your support needs.
Do I have to go to my GP to get a mental health treatment plan before seeking Head to Health services?
No, anyone can call Head to Health, whether they already have a GP mental health treatment plan or not. If we believe you require a mental health treatment plan, we can discuss that with your GP with your consent.