About Head to Health
Whether you are looking for mental health support for yourself, someone you care about, or just trying to improve your wellbeing - Head to Health is a good place to start.
Head to Health helps everyone access the mental health and wellbeing services that are right for them. It makes it easier to navigate and choose the most suitable care options, whether that’s face-to-face, via phone, or online.
The Head to Health national mental health website
The Head to Health National Digital Mental Health Gateway was originally launched in October 2017 to provide easy access to digital mental health services, information and support. It was developed through extensive codesign, involving people with a lived experience of mental ill-health, carers, and the mental health sector.
In the 2021-22 Budget, funding was provided to begin work to transform the existing Gateway into a more comprehensive national mental health website. Further codesign conversations and workshops in 2021 and 2022 informed ideas for what a national mental health website could deliver.
The outcomes of these discussions led to the release of a trial website in March 2022. It features a tailored experience that connects people with mental health services based on their needs and preferences. It also includes support for those caring for a friend or family member, as well as for GPs and other healthcare professionals.
The trial website transitioned to a full release in June 2023, retiring the Head to Health National Digital Mental Health Gateway.
Tell us what you think
Head to Health aims to be accessible and relevant for everyone. As you explore the website, please let us know what’s working well and what you would like to see by answering a few questions.
The Head to Health Phone Service
The Head to Health Phone Service makes timely mental health advice, assessment, and treatment more accessible for everyone.
You can make a free call to 1800 595 212 between 8:30am – 5pm weekdays (except public holidays), and connect with a trained professional. They can help you access local mental health services and supports that are right for you.
Head to Health is not a crisis or emergency service. For urgent support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. If you need immediate help or are at risk of harm to yourself or others, call 000 now.
Learn more about the Head to Health Phone Service.
Head to Health Clinics in Victoria
In addition to the website and phone service, Head to Health Clinics in Victoria offer a safe and welcoming space for anyone seeking mental health support, or help accessing services. You can access Head to Health Clinics by calling 1800 595 212 and asking for support, or by visiting your nearest location.
Complaints or concerns
The Head to Health website is provided by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. If you have any concerns or complaints about the website you would like to raise, please contact the department.
Acknowledgement
A special thanks is made to the late Jackie Crowe and all contributors to the development of the original Head to Health Gateway. Sadly, Jackie passed away shortly after the Gateway was launched. Jackie was the driving force in bringing a diverse group of people with experience of mental illness together to share the vision of positive end user engagement to improve mental health access and supports. Jackie will be missed, and it is hoped she would be proud of what Head to Health continues to do.