ME/CFS and long COVID are conditions that affect your body’s ability to work properly; they are not psychological conditions. However, it’s common to need support with mental health when living with long-lasting physical symptoms. Professional help can guide you through the challenges these conditions bring, help you adjust to a new way of life, and find meaning within your energy limits.
When life feels overwhelming or if in-person services aren’t available, support lines can help. These services are free, available 24 hours a day, and can be accessed by phone, text or online chat.
Calling a support line can be a significant step towards getting help and support. Whether you’re facing a crisis, feeling overwhelmed, or simply need someone to talk to, these counsellors are trained to listen, provide resources, and guide you forward.
If your life or the life of another person is in danger, call 000
Support lines – for professional help
- Lifeline – for all Australians – 13 11 14
- Kids Help Line – for young people under 25 – 1800 55 1800
- Suicide Call Back Service – for all Australians – 1300 659 467 (call costs apply to 1300 numbers)
- Beyond Blue – for all Australians – 1300 22 46 36 (call costs apply to 1300 numbers)
- 13YARN – for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people – 13 92 76
- 1800 Respect – Domestic and sexual violence support – 1800 737 732
Beyond Now Suicide Safety Plan
If you feel suicidal at times, but are not ready to talk to someone, you can use Lifeline’s tools to create your Beyond Now Suicide Safety Pan. This web app helps you to create a safety plan for when you’re feeling unsafe or suicidal. This toolbox comes either as an online form or you can download the mobile app. Use this link to go to the Lifeline webpage and learn more.
What to expect from a support line
Reaching out to a support line counsellor can feel daunting, but it’s important to remember they are there to support you. While they might not have connected with a person who lives with ME/CFS or long COVID before, they are trained to help with difficult life situations. If you’d like, you can suggest they contact Emerge Australia to learn more about these conditions.
Support line counsellors are listeners
Their primary role is to listen to you. They reflect back what you say, which can help you sort through your thoughts and feelings.
Feel free to express your needs and don’t hesitate to tell the counsellor what you are hoping to get out of the conversation. You might be after:
- A listening ear
- Guidance
- Specific resources, or something else
Starting the conversation
You can decide how you want to start the conversation. Whether it’s diving right into the reason for your call or sharing a bit of your story first, the choice is yours. Take your time, there’s no rush.
Understanding what a support line can offer
Understanding how a support line works can help you feel more prepared and confident when reaching out for help. It’s okay to call and ask about their services. You can inquire about:
- What to expect
- The usual steps they take
- The type of support they offer
- Anything else you may like to know
It is important to talk with your doctor when life presents challenges. To learn more about accessing mental health support please click here Accessing mental health support
