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Mental health support for men in Australia

30 October 2025
Happy man smiling and kneeling by the ocean on a sunny day

Getting mental health support when you're not feeling yourself these days is easier than ever, including both paid help and free resources. You’ve got online support services, mental health plans and wellbeing apps to boot. Even though we have these wonderful resources, only 37% of men reach out for mental health support when they need it.  

We understand asking for help can be hard, especially when it feels like the world is against you. But getting support for your mental health can prevent your problems from snowballing. That’s why we’re sharing some free resources you can use (when you’re ready) to help improve your mental wellbeing. 

Why is getting support for mental health important? 

Mental health plays a huge role in our lives. It can influence how we feel and affect how we can function in our great big world. When you have good mental health, you might feel confident and happy. And you might feel connected with other people or like you have a purpose in life. On top of that, good mental health can help you be more resilient when life throws a spanner in the works. 

Where can men get support for their mental health? 

If you think you need support for your mental health or even if you’re unsure, here's a list of resources you can access: 

Beyond Blue 

Beyond Blue is one of Australia’s most trusted mental health organisations. You can speak with a counsellor over the phone or through Beyond Blue’s online chat without paying a cent. 

There are a lot of free tools to help you understand your mental health better. Plus, there are forums you can join to talk with others who might be going through the same things as you. 

You can visit the Beyond Blue website or call a counsellor on 1300 224 636. 

Lifeline 

Men are around three times more likely to die by suicide than women and this is where Lifeline can come in. Lifeline lets you share your feelings with a trained supporter over the phone, through text or an online chat. The supporter you speak to will work with you to ensure your physical and emotional safety. You can also do an online quiz to understand what’s on your mind and get tailored ways to help you out. 

You can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, text them at 0477 13 11 14, or start an online chat. 

MensLine Australia 

MensLine is a free counselling service that can help all Aussie men (including you) all day, every day. You can call a counsellor, chat with one online or even book a video chat. The counsellors at MensLine can help you with all sorts of problems, like your mental health, anger management and stress. 

You can visit the MensLine website, call a counsellor on 1300 78 99 78, use their online chat or book a video call. 

Dads in Distress 

When you go through a divorce and have kids, it’s normal to feel lots of intense emotions. Pain, anger, confusion, denial and even relief. That’s why Dads in Distress (DIDs) exists – to help separated dads navigate post-divorce challenges. 

DIDs offers free online and in-person support groups for men’s mental health and other issues. You can also speak with an online dad chat group 24/7 or call their hotline if you’d rather chat with someone over the phone. 

You can call the DIDs hotline on 1300 853 437 or check out their website for peer group session times. 

Your GP and a psychologist 

You can visit your GP and talk to them about your mental health. They can ask you some questions about how you’ve been feeling lately and draft a Mental Health Treatment Plan. This plan will allow Medicare to cover the cost of 10 individual psychology appointments, where you can learn strategies on how to navigate your struggles. 

Heads up: If you’re an eligible nib member, check out our First Choice network providers to get the best value from your cover. 

Mental health apps 

Want support when you’re out and about? Then consider downloading a free mental health app. These apps vary in what kind of support they can offer, but they can give you simple tools to help you manage your mental health. Do your research to see which ones suits your needs or take a look at our top six mental health apps. 

What can you do now? 

We understand that reaching out for support, either through an online support service or to your GP, can be difficult. That’s why we’re sharing this short and sweet list to help you take small steps towards positive mental health: 

  • Stay healthy by eating well and exercising often 

  • Whether it’s hitting the gym together or catching up for dinner, try to make the time to connect with friends 

  • Talk to someone you trust, like a partner, relative or friend 

  • Try a mindfulness activity, like deep breathing or yoga. 

nib is here to support you 

At nib, our goal is to help you be at your healthiest, both physically and mentally. That’s why we offer free mental health management programs for eligible nib members. These programs can help you access long- or short-term personalised solutions for your mental wellbeing to get you back on track emotionally. And remember, if you or a loved one needs support, you can contact: