What they do
SANE is a national mental health organisation that focuses on supporting people who experience complex mental health issues and people with an intellectual disability.
They provide a range of free digital and telehealth support services, such as peer support, counselling, community forums and information resources.
Their vision is to provide a brighter future for people with complex mental health issues by ending mental health inequity and social exclusion.
Who they're for
SANE offers their support services to anyone over 18 years old with complex mental health needs, their family, friends and carers. They also provide mental health support to people with intellectual disability, autism or acquired brain injury.
How they help
- Counselling
You can reach their team of counsellors by phone, email or web chat from 10 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday AEST/AEDT.
When you contact them, they will:
- Work with you to explore your current situation
- Offer ideas on how to support yourself or a loved one
- Suggest where to get additional support or treatment
- Help you identify your own existing strenghts and resources.
- Peer support
You can connect with a peer worker via phone or email Monday to Friday 10 am-4 pm AST/EDT.
Their peer support workers have their own lived experience of navigating some of the issues you might be facing. They will:
- Listen to you without judgement and provide a safe and supportive space
- Share their own experiences of mental health
- Suggest places to get additional support.
You can also join their real-time Peer Group Chats that focus on a specific topic and are guided by peer workers with lived experience. You can find out more information about it here.
- Forums
Their moderated Forums are a supportive community where you can connect with people in similar situations and chat with them. They provide a safe, non-judgemental space to share your experiences, seek advice and surround yourself with support.
You can access their forums 24/7 here.
- Information and resources
SANE factsheets and guides provide information about complex mental health issues, help you understand what's happening and what strategies can be helpful.
You can also find stories from real people who have experienced complex mental health issues.
You can visit their information and resources page here.
Translating and interpreting services
If English is not your first language, call the free Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450. Ask for your preferred language. When connected to an interpreter, ask to speak to the SANE Helpline on 1800 187 263.
