Help Options

Helplines and support services

If you need to talk to someone other than emergency services, try these helplines:

Below is a list of some of the services available which offer support, information and help. All services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week unless otherwise stated.

  • Lifeline – 0800 543 354
  • Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
    (for people in distress, and people who are worried about someone else)
  • Healthline – 0800 611 116
  • Samaritans – 0800 726 666 (for callers from the Lower North Island, Christchurch and West Coast) or 04 473 9739 (for callers from all other regions)
  • Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email [email protected]
  • What’s Up – 0800 942 8787
    (for 5-18 year olds; 1 pm to 11 pm)
  • Kidsline – 0800 54 37 54 (0800 KIDSLINE)
    (for children up to 14 years of age; 4 pm to 6 pm weekdays)
  • www.depression.org.nz – includes The Journal free online self-help tool
  • www.thelowdown.co.nz – visit the website, email [email protected] or free text 5626 (emails and text messages will be responded to between 12 noon and 12 midnight).
  • OUTLine NZ – 0800 688 5463 (0800 OUTLINE)
    (provides confidential support for sexuality or gender identity issues).
  • SPARX.org.nz – an online self-help tool that teaches young people the key skills needed to help combat depression and anxiety.
  • Common Ground – a central hub providing parents, family, whānau and friends with access to information, tools and support to help a young person who’s struggling.
  • Mental Health Foundation – for more information about supporting someone in distress, looking after your mental health and working towards recovery.

 

If you’re outside of New Zealand, you can find help near you through this international list of crisis centres.

 

Other support services

For more information and support, talk to your local doctor, medical centre, community mental health team or counselling service.

  • Find a GP or counsellor
  • Support groups
  • Apps, e-therapy and guided self-help