What they do
Butterfly provides free and confidential support for people affected by eating disorders and body image concerns.
You can access support services like:
- Butterfly National Helpline (1800 334 673), online chat and email support: Available 8am - midnight (AEST/AEDT), 7 days a week
- Online self-help resources: Many of these resources are provided by the National Eating Disorders Collaboration (NEDC)
- Virtual support groups: Facilitated by trained peer facilitators who have lived experience of an eating disorder themselves. Must be 18+.
- Webchat support groups: Facilitated by specialist counsellors from Butterfly National Helpline. Must be 16+.
- In-person support groups*: These groups are delivered by trained peer facilitators. *Only available in Hobart, Tasmania.
- Referral database: Butterfly's directory lists a range of practitioners and services near you.
- Anonymous screening tool: The screening tool can help you to know if you’re at risk for an eating disorder. It will not give you a diagnosis, but you can use it to find out if you should see a trained health professional.
- Next Steps Outpatient Online Program: Next Steps is an online program that offers care and support after residential or hospital treatment for an eating disorder.
- Emerging Program: The Emerging Program is an 8-week psychoeducation and skills program for individuals experiencing an eating disorder or engaging in disordered eating.
Butterfly National Helpline does not provide crisis support or medical help.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can contact Lifeline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via 13 11 14, text, and chat.
If life is in danger, call 000.
Who they're for
Butterfly is for anyone in Australia impacted by an eating disorder or a body image concern.
They're committed to helping you find support - whether it’s for yourself, a friend, family member, client, or anyone else you care about.
You can ask for help with things like:
- Information about eating disorders and body image
- Information and resources about treatment, care, and support
- Referrals to health practitioners who understand eating disorders and addiction
- Counselling options.
How to contact
You can connect with a Butterfly mental health counsellor between 8am and midnight (AEST/AEDT), 7 days a week via:
- The Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 334 673
- Online chat
- Email.
