Mental Health Red Flags
Mental health challenges are really common — as many as one in two Australians will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. Not every mood dip or anxious moment is a crisis, but some patterns and changes are warning signs that support may be needed.
Be Aware of the Signs
It’s common to feel low or anxious after a stressful or traumatic event, the loss of someone you care about, a major life change, or during times of conflict in important relationships. Mood shifts can also occur during hormonal transitions, such as adolescence, during and after pregnancy, and around menopause — these can amplify emotional sensitivity and make coping feel harder than usual.
If any of the following signs are persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily life, it’s time to reach out to someone you trust or speak with a health professional:
Warning Signs to Watch For
Emotional & Behavioural Changes
Physical & Functional Changes
Risky or Unusual Behaviour
Important: These signs don’t mean someone will hurt themselves, but they do mean it’s time to take concerns seriously and get help early.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
Talk to Someone
- A GP or health professional can assess symptoms and help plan support.
- Reaching out to a trusted friend or family member can be a vital first step.
📞 If You’re in Crisis or Feeling Unsafe
Call Lifeline: 13 11 14 — 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention for anyone in Australia. Lifeline
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 — free 24/7 counselling via phone, online or video. Suicide Call Back Service
If there is immediate danger to you or someone else, call 000.
Other Australian Support Services
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 — support for anxiety, depression and wellbeing. Beyond Blue
- headspace: 1800 650 890 — youth and young adult mental health support. Headspace
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 — 24/7 support for young people. Kids helpline
- R U OK?: A conversation starter and support directory that helps you reach out to someone who might be struggling. R U OK?
- Medicare Mental Health Centres: Walk‑in or phone support for emotional distress. Medicare Mental Health Centres
💡 When to Seek Professional Help
Even if you’re not in crisis, the following are good reasons to talk to a health professional:
- Daily functioning (work, family, relationships) is affected
- You’re self‑medicating with alcohol or substances
- You have other health issues (sleep loss, chronic pain, a chronic disease) or
- Symptoms lasting more than a few weeks
Early intervention works. You don’t need a diagnosis to benefit from support — talking to someone early can improve wellbeing and prevent things from getting worse.
