Head to Health mental health support clinics and referral line have been established in NSW and ACT to help those whose mental health may be suffering as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
What is Head to Health?
NSW and ACT Primary Health Networks (PHNs) have established pop up clinics and a referral line in collaboration with the Department of Health and Aged Care (DoHAC). These services aim to assist community members in receiving the right care, at the right time, for any mental health concerns they may be experiencing. This initiative is an expansion of DoHAC’s Head to Health and will create a central hub for community members and health professionals to access appropriate services recommended by a trained mental health professional.
Calling 1800 595 212 will have you connected to a trained professional, who will give advice and connect you to the best support or service for your needs. If your mental health is suffering as a result of the current pandemic, now is the time to reach out.
The sooner you begin to talk about your mental health, the sooner you’ll get the help and support you need to help you move forward and feel better.
Access Head to Health
Head to Health is a joint project between New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory PHNs, and the Department of Health and Aged Care to improve access to mental health services.
The Head to Health intake and referral line, and clinics are operated by PHNs across New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and Victoria.
Stride Mental Health has been appointed the Western Sydney Head to Health Adult Mental Health Centre (AMHC) service provider which is now open at: Ground Floor, Suite 1, 150 George Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150.
This centre is a significant addition to the network of mental health services operating in our region and provides a stand-alone, multidisciplinary, collaborative service for people aged 18 years and over, experiencing moderate to high levels of mental health needs. The service is free to access, located close to public transport, and requires no refferal, appointment or prior mental health diagnosis.
If you’re not feeling OK, Head to Health can help direct you to appropriate support networks.
By calling 1800 595 212 (Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5pm), a trained mental health professional will talk to you and discuss mental health options to fit your needs.
The health professional will ask a range of questions to ensure the right services are identified to support you.
Following the assessment, you could be connected to any of the recommended services, including:
- headspace
- Care at a Head to Health clinic
- Specialist, or acute mental health services, including emergency care
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 services can help 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 for someone else. This includes referrals from GPs and other mental health providers, friends or family members.
You may need to get the person’s consent
If you are calling on behalf of someone else, you may need to receive their verbal consent, giving you permission to contact Head to Health on their behalf. This will allow Head to Health staff to contact the individual if needed.
Crisis Support
Head to Health is not a crisis support service. If you, or the person you are supporting, needs urgent care, call 000.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help our community members find out more about Head to Health services and what to expect, we have provided answers to some common questions you may have.
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 COVID-19 pandemic. This includes people experiencing addiction, families and carers. Even if you have never sought help before, Head to Health is here for you.
In the first instance, a trained health professional will talk with you about your personal concerns to identify the support you need and develop a package of services that respond to your individual situation. That might involve referring you to existing mental health and other services or to a Head to Health hub.
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.
With your consent, Head to Health can also work with your GP to ensure they are kept informed about the support services recommended for you.
Sometimes finding the support you need can seem overwhelming. Rather than jumping straight into a service that might not suit you, it can be helpful to talk to someone who can guide you to the right service for you.
Staff on 1800 595 212 are trained health professionals and can help you access the right services for your needs.
Head to Health can also provide face-to-face and telehealth services at pop up hub locations.
Phone Head to Health on 1800 595 212 from 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (except public holidays). This is not a crisis service, if you require urgent care, call 000.
Head to Health is a central advice and referral number, this has been established alongside 10 mental health hubs across NSW.
The first step is to call 1800 595 212 where a trained health professional will work with you to see what you need. If you are referred to receive services from a Head to Health hub, you can choose from telehealth or COVID-safe face-to-face appointments.
Yes. Using the Head to Health advice and referral service is free. If you are referred to a Head to Health hub there is no cost for services there either.
However, not everyone who contacts us will be suitable for treatment at a hub. You may be referred to receive support from another provider, where possible, this will also be a free or low-cost service.
With your consent, all or part of any advice and plans can be shared with your GP or other health care providers. If you prefer not to have them shared, that is okay. However, it is encouraged you discuss any additional advice or support you receive from Head to Health with your GP or other health providers because coordinating your care is in your best interests.
Yes. However, if you are already seeing a psychologist, or another mental health professional, please advise Head to Health so the best services can be identified to meet your needs.
No. Anyone can call 1800 595 212 whether they already have a mental health treatment plan or not. If Head to Health believe you require a mental health plan, they can discuss this with your GP with your consent.