220 Mental Health Resources for Students [Free & Affordable]

The last years were life-changing for the majority of people around the world. The Covid-19 pandemic abruptly took over our lives and subsequently reminded us of the importance of mental health. Due to the worldwide lockdown, numerous people are suffering the negative consequences of isolation and even unemployment. It has significantly affected the physical and psychological health of the global population.

Long before the pandemic, many students noted an increase in anxiety and depression as a result of balancing their academic and social life. Unfortunately, the situation has not improved. Instead, it has gotten worse. More and more students are now in need of psychological help.

Our experts have created a list of the best affordable or free mental health websites and apps. We’ve grouped them by country and also provided the websites that are accessible globally.

🌐 Worldwide Mental Health Resources

As we will mention more than once in this article, the best place to seek psychological help is your community. Talking to a professional with a cultural background similar to yours will be more rewarding than communicating with someone who is a complete stranger. If you’re willing to study the topic in your spare time, consider checking out essay samples on mental health from A+ students.

In the following sections, you will find sources that are available in one or more countries. But let’s start with the international websites. Here, you can either search for your specific country or look for help regardless of your place of residence.

These resources are available worldwide:

• Active Minds

Active Minds is an international organization that strives to provide psychological assistance to young adults. The primary goal is to empower youth to speak about mental health issues openly. This approach helps to reduce the stigma surrounding psychological problems and to prevent suicides. The service is free and available 24/7. If you feel like you need psychological support, give it a try.

• Al-Anon Family Groups

AI-Anon Family Groups is an organization that specializes in providing psychological assistance to young alcoholics. The group operates worldwide. Just visit the website, search for a meeting or an Al-Anon office near you, and join the team. The support is provided for free.

• 7 Cups: Online Therapy & Free Counseling

7 Cups is one of the world’s largest emotional support systems. It offers a free 24/7 online chat. Here users can receive valuable advice on how to deal with any mental problem. Would you like a personalized consultation? You can get one for an additional payment. For fans of smartphones, 7 Cups offers free IOS and Android apps.

• Samaritans

Samaritans is an online hotline that provides free psychological support all around the world. Feeling exhausted, frustrated, lost, or lonely? Just call or text Samaritans. They are available at any time of the day or night. Also, trace your emotional states with the Samaritans mobile app. It’s free!

• Support Group Central

Support Groups Central is an international organization that provides psychological support via group calls. To participate, visit the website and choose the topic that concerns you. After registration, you can join in a meeting. Trained psychologists facilitate the calls. Besides, Support Groups Central is always available!

• HAVOCA – Help for Adult Victims Of Child Abuse

Are you a young adult suffering from childhood psychological traumas that don’t let you live life to the fullest? If so, then HAVOCA is a great online resource for you. It offers information on how to deal with childhood abuse and traumas. Moreover, the website allows childhood abuse victims to connect through survivor forums. HAVOCA provides direction and friendship to survivors worldwide. The resource is free and available 24/7.

• International Bipolar Foundation Hope, Resources & Support

This resource is full of educational videos and articles about bipolar disorder. You may complete a test to make an initial assessment of your mental well-being. In case you need psychological support, suicide crisis hotlines are also available on the website. The resource is free and accessible in any region at any time of the day.

• Alcoholics Anonymous 

It’s an international fellowship of people suffering from alcohol abuse. The organization is non-professional and self-supporting. Alcohol addicts from all around the globe can meet through this platform and share their stories. Need peer support? Visit the Alcoholics Anonymous website. It’s free and available 24/7.

• Narcotics Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous is a global non-profit fellowship with a multicultural membership. The major mission is to gather drug-dependent people in one place and provide psychological support. Here, you can find materials about recovery from narcotics abuse. Moreover, you may join virtual meetings and participate in discussions online. The service is free of charge and always available.

• Social Anxiety Support Center

Social Anxiety Support Center is an online forum where you can find many resources regarding any psychological breakdown. Visit the platform and read the articles that apply to you. Share your story and find support from other forum members who have similar life situations.

• International OCD Foundation Support Groups

It is a life-changing resource developed for people struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related conditions. The foundation increases access to effective treatment and strives to end the stigma. The website includes a massive database, the IOCDF Resource Directory. Moreover, you may find contact information for licensed therapists and intensive treatment programs. The website is cost-free and accessible around the clock.

• MoodGym

MoodGym is an interactive book that aims to prevent and manage symptoms like depression or anxiety. It can be accessed at any time from any place. What’s more, your private information is totally secure and confidential. However, it is not free. The subscription for individual access for one year costs $27.00.

• Daily Strength

Daily Strength is a mental health support resource for people who have depression.It contains a wealth of information about psychiatric illnesses and possible ways of overcoming them. The platform has support groups divided into categories. Need instant help? Choose your category and receive support from fellow website users. It’s at no charge and accessible worldwide.

• Emotions Anonymous

Emotions Anonymous is an international non-profit organization that strives to aid people in overcoming emotional swings. Pay attention that it’s a non-professional community, so it doesn’t provide medical or psychiatric assistance. The primary objective is to create a warm and friendly setting. Join meetings in local centers or online via Zoom, Skype, etc. The service is completely free.

• Overeaters Anonymous

Disordered eating behaviors are among the most critical psychological challenges nowadays. That’s why this international community decided to dedicate its work to addressing compulsive food behaviors. The service is free and available 24/7. Anyone who needs help dealing with nutritional problems can join a virtual meeting. Here, the other members share their experiences and support each other.

• Recovery International

Recovery International is a global platform that helps people all over the world. Here, you can gain skills to lead a more peaceful and productive life. It uses the unique self-help training system developed by Abraham Low to eliminate the stigma of mental illness. The service is available anytime, anywhere, for anyone. Just visit the website and register for a Zoom meeting for psychological support.

• Survivors of Incest Anonymous

Survivors of Incest Anonymous is an international non-governmental organization striving to empower those who have survived childhood sexual abuse. If you want, you can join free online group meetings. People can share their stories and discuss them with other participants. It’s a valuable step on the road to recovery. Besides, Survivors of Incest Anonymous raises awareness about the significance of this issue absolutely free of charge.

• Club Soda

If you are suffering from alcohol addiction, then Club Soda is the organization you should join. It is a global online community that helps people rethink their views on alcohol. It can become your start for a more mindful life. Join the community to receive emotional support from those who have already overcome dependence. Visit actual events or find scheduled virtual meetings. The website provides free services. The events’ time, location, and price vary – check them out before visiting.

Pro Tip:

You can use the YourLifeCounts search engine. Indicate the country and region you are interested in. Then, select the resource that fits your preferences.

Alternatively, check out a list of country-specific mental health resources below.

🦅 US Mental Health Resources

Unfortunately, according to recent studies, the number of young adults who suffer from mental health concerns increases every year. Moreover, reports show that 39% of all students in the US struggle with at least one psychological illness, and this percentage keeps growing.

When students experience such conditions, all areas of their lives are affected, like social or financial. They may solve some of them by making some money or talking to close ones. Yet, they can still feel overwhelmed and left all alone.

The following hotlines are dedicated to helping students who face challenging life circumstances:

Text “Brave” to 741-741 – Crisis Text Line is a free 24/7 support service for anyone and anywhere in the USA. It functions on a volunteer basis.

1-866-488-7386 – Trevor Project is a line for LGBTIQA+ youth with suicidal ideation. You can find support free of charge at any time.

Call 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 – The Disaster Distress Helpline provides cost-free year-round support and immediate crisis counseling for people in emotional distress after a disaster.

Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) – National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a United States network for the prevention of suicide. It’s accessible around the clock via a toll-free hotline.

1-800-656-HOPE (4673) – National Sexual Assault Hotline is a confidential hotline with more than 1,100 trained volunteers on duty to aid victims of sexual abuse.

1-800-931-2237—The National Eating Disorders Association Helpline provides no-cost assistance for people with eating disorders. Chat, call, and text are always available.

Students in distress can also pay attention to the following online resources:

• Mental Health Is Health provides a lot of resources for mental well-being. They claim that this page provides resources to reduce stress. It gives some practical tips to self-help in moments of distress. For instance, it teaches how to slow down and ground yourself, process and name negative emotions. The page also has books for children about COVID.
• ULifeline is an online resource for college mental health. Right now, it focuses on how young adults can care for themselves during the COVID-19 outbreak. It also has information on how to help a friend who is struggling emotionally.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation’s largest mental health organization. Their slogan is “You are not alone” because 1 in 5 humans are affected by mental illness. There are four missions that NAMI aims to achieve. They educate, they advocate, they listen, and they lead. NAMI has a free helpline that responds to thousands of people across the country. It provides support and information to people with mental illnesses.
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America is a society that has more than 50,000 subscribers around the world. It provides support in English to anyone struggling with anxiety and depression.
• OK2Talk is a free space to talk about mental health problems. It is a community for young adults that share their experience struggling and sometimes overcoming their problem. Mental issues can make you feel that you are alone and hopeless. The stigma that is associated with these types of diseases makes it hard to speak. That is why OK2Talk can be an excellent solution for youngsters that just want to be heard.
• 18percent is another peer support community for young people struggling with mental issues. This community is hosted in Slack, and you can have a chat with people in a similar situation. There are more than 1000 followers from all over the world.

Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental health issues. It is a constant feeling of sadness and loss of interest that prevents you from doing simple things.

There are various types of depressions, ranging from minor or severe. There are several reasons for this disorder:

• genetic,
• biological,
• environmental,
• and psychological.

In this section, you will find links to helpful resources for those struggling with depression.

Depression Tribe

It is a peer-to-peer support group for those struggling with depression. Depression Tribe offers a safe space to share your journey navigating life with this disorder. Social support is essential when recovering from depression.

Depression Alliance

It is a peer-to-peer support group for those struggling with depression. Depression Tribe offers a safe space to share your journey navigating life with this disorder. Social support is essential when recovering from depression.

LiveWell – Depression Support Groups

LiveWell is a peer-led program that is backed by science. It has free weekly mental wellness support groups for teens. It is conducted via Zoom every Wednesday at 7 PM Eastern time.

Talk To Someone Now – Lifeline

Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a free and confidential hotline for people who needs emotional support. No matter what problem you are dealing with, speaking about the situation might help you. All conversations are free. On the website, there is also a chat with crisis counselors available.

Depression Forums

The website consists of a group of volunteers who help to moderate forums. These people decided to get involved because they were affected either personally or through a loved one. Depression Forum can be the first step in understanding that you need real help. It is essential to know that you are not alone in this.

Anxiety

Anxiety is your body’s response to stress. It is a feeling of solid fear before something important. Students can have anxiety before taking an exam, having an interview, or a presentation. This section will share some organizations and resources that can help you in moments of stress.

• TheTribe. TheTribe is a peer-to-peer support group for those coping with anxiety disorders. Around 18% percent of the adult population is affected. In addition to professional help, using support groups can reduce symptoms of stress related to anxiety disorder.
• Anxiety and Social Anxiety Disorder Support – Support Groups. This anxiety support group has more than 100000 members. Besides posting on the wall about your issues, you can get help 24/7 absolutely for free. You can also choose to support someone who struggles with anxiety.
• Anxiety Resource Center. Anxiety Resource Center has resources, presentations, online meetings for adults and youth with anxiety. For instance, you can find efficient articles from health professionals such as “25 Ways to Deal with Anxiety and Panic.” As you can see, this website is focused on self-help. Nonetheless, you can get connected with specialists here too.
• Men’s Group. Men’s Group is a community for struggling with anxiety and other issues. It helps men deal with divorce, breakup, being a dad, work, and finding purpose. Seeing how others handled similar problems can save you energy and time. It is free and confidential. Also, it is suitable for every age.
• The April Center for Anxiety Attack Management. The April Center for Anxiety Attack Management provides anxiety treatment for adults and youth. There is a teen program that focuses on the unique problems experienced by youngsters. There are a lot of free resources and articles. However, individual, group, and family therapies are not free of charge.
• Turn2Me. Turn2Me is a support group for adults. A mental health professional started it, and it is a safe space to connect with others. There are a lot of resources available for adults, young people, parents, and couples. It also has a crisis support line available 24/7 and completely free of charge.

Eating Disorders

An eating disorder is a psychological illness that is characterized by disrupted eating habits. There are many causes of this illness, like biology and genetics.

Binge-eating disorder is the most prevalent eating disorder in the USA. However, there are others, such as anorexia, bulimia, restrictive food intake disorder, and more. Check out the links to the resources that can aid with these issues.

Addictions

Addictions are usually associated with drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes. However, it is anything without what we cannot live. It can include cell phones, chocolate, or social media. In this section, find resources that can help you fight substance abuse.

1. Addictions Treatment. This resource can answer your questions and help you find a rehab 24/7. For that, you need to dial an addiction hotline which is free and confidential. Addictions Treatment also has a lot of information and articles about how to change your life.
2. SMART Recovery. SMART Recovery is a global community of people trying to resolve addiction issues for themselves and their loved ones. SMART stands for self-management and recovery training. At the meetings, which happen both offline and online, people help one another fight any addiction. It serves people of any age, and the sessions are entirely free of charge.
3. DrugRehab. DrugRehab focuses on providing information, resources, and treatment for people trying to overcome addiction. The goal of this organization is to equip people with tools to get on the road to recovery. You can reach the coordinators via a 24/7 confidential toll-free helpline or through the chat on the website. It has a lot of resources for young adults and teens too.
4. Detox. Detox is a network of treatment facilities that can provide drug and alcohol treatment to anyone struggling with addiction. It is also giving an option for medical detox and a vast number of services for addiction treatment. You can reach them 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
   The cost of the program depends on the intensity and length of the treatment. Most insurances will cover it. However, you should expect to pay from $300-$900 per day for the average detox program if you don’t have one. If you don’t have money, the platform can offer you some options anyway.
5. Loosid. Loosid is a digital platform that celebrates sober life. You can find people who go through the same process of sobering up. It also has a Loosid community chat and Loosid dating app that help you meet people who share similar experiences.
6. LifeRing. It’s an organization of people who share their experiences and provide sobriety support. LifeRing believes that every person knows best how to design their recovery program. The organization offers help to stay addiction-free. It does it through various methods such as local face-to-face, online meetings, and publications. The sessions are free of charge, and anyone can attend.
7. Women for Sobriety. WFS is an organization and a self-help program for women of any age with substance use disorders. The New Life Program that the organization runs provides outreach and education about addiction. This program is based on the therein acceptance statements and behavioral changes. Beginner Special Bundle for the program costs 44 dollars before tax.

Bipolar Disorder

Living with bipolar disorder is like living on the swings. Your mood can change from an extreme high to an extreme low. Manic symptoms include energy, excitement, and agitation, while depressive symptoms include a lack of energy and worthless.

In this section, you will find helpful resources that people can use in treating bipolar disorder.

PTSD & Trauma

PTSD is a mental health condition that is caused by a traumatic event. Symptoms can vary from flashbacks to nightmares or severe anxiety. When most people go through some tragic situations, they can have difficulty functioning and coping. With some time, it gets better. However, if it doesn’t and the anxiety continues for months, you may be developing post-traumatic stress disorder.

Here, you will find resources that can make your life more consequence-free of PTSD symptoms. The following organizations offer medical and peer-to-peer support.

1. National Human Trafficking Resource Hotline is accessible at any time you may need. Try a wholly free and confidential helpline. The website offers a referral directory for the victims to find social or legal services for victims. You can also report a tip if you know someone in this situation on the website.
2. Love Is Respect: National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline is an organization that can assist young adults in finding healthy relationships and ending unhealthy ones. You can explore information about how to set boundaries or what genuine consent is. Here, you can discuss your dating abuse situation and understand what to do next. In case you need legal support, contact their advocates 24/7 via phone or live chat.
3. National Domestic Violence Hotline focuses on help for domestic violence victims. You can reach a free and confidential helpline via call or text. Check out info on how to identify abuse. It provides effective tools to get out of hazardous situations safely. The advocates will create a personalized security plan based on your conditions.
4. RAINN – Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network is cost-free, confidential, and available 24/7 via toll-free number or chat. The RAINN also has a mobile app that gives survivors of sexualized violence the tools to help with their recovery path. If you feel ready to talk to someone, find your specialist here.
5. WomensLaw is a website that delivers legal information for abuse victims. Here, you can find lawyers, shelters, and other forms of assistance. This project has an email hotline that responds to victims of sexual offenses. Its team operates on a donation basis and is no-cost for users. 
6. Safe Horizon is an organization that provides a 24-hour hotline in English and Spanish for abuse survivors. It is the nation’s leading victim assistance platform. If you happen to be on the East Coast, you can find various programs across New York City through the website. The helpline is toll-free. 

LGBTIQ+ & Gender Issues

Many LGBTIQ+ people experience hate and discrimination. It regularly affects their lives and their mental health. In this section, you will find links to websites and helplines dedicated to helping LGBTIQ+ people in need.

🍁 Canada Mental Health Resources

About 4000 people die each year in Canada as a result of suicide. It is a common cause of death among young Canadians aged 15-24. This number is so staggering that 1 in 5 Canadians will experience at least one mental health issue in a given year.

The Canadian Government and private organizations have put together their best effort to support people in battling mental health problems. If you are in Canada and need help, these special hotlines with immediate assistance can do it for you:

902-429-8167 – Mental Health Mobile Crisis Telephone Line provides crisis support for children, young adults, and adults. The service is available 24/7 and entirely for free.

1-833-456-4566 toll-free – Crisis Services Canada is available 24/7/365 for free. It offers support to anyone going through difficult times and concerned about suicide.

1 (888) 353-2273 – Canadian Crisis Hotline is available 24 hours per day and toll-free. The operators will connect you to the closest branch for crisis support.

You can call 911 for other emergency services.

For more telephone counseling, look for numbers on OpenCounseling. You will see that most of the services are broken down province by province. The entire list of mental health services available for Canadian residents in different areas is available in the CTVNews article.

However, there are also countrywide hotlines, organizations, and helplines that assist people for free or with discounts:

• Canadian Mental Health Association is a directory of Psychiatrists, Counsellors, Psychologists, and mental health professionals. It is the nationwide leader for mental health resources. On their website, you can get help and info about national programs designed to promote inclusion.
• Bell Let’s Talk is an organization that offers a wide range of services for young adults, children, adults, seniors. It also has culturally specific resources and resources for families. The website is available in English and French.
• Hope for Wellness Helpline is an online chat counseling service. It is toll-free and available 24/7. The helpline counselors are ready to assist Canadians and Canadian residents who want to talk.​​
• Mental Health Toolkit (I am a Student) is another mental health website. The “I am a student” tab addresses issues faced by young adults. It gives numbers and ensures students that someone can hear their stories. It also lists reasons for mental health issues among students, which can be caused by homesickness, financial stress, drug and alcohol use.
• LifeLine Canada is a website that posts guides, tools, and resources on mental health and suicide prevention. It is not a crisis hotline. It is a foundation that runs three programs: the website, the app, and paws therapy dogs.
• Togetherall Canada is online peer-to-peer support for mental health. It is anonymous community accessible 24 hours per day. Plus, there are plenty of tools for self-assessment. As a student, you can have free access to all of them.
• Kids Help Phone is a live chat counseling service for kids which is open daily from 7 PM to midnight ET. It is available in French and English, entirely free and confidential. There is also an option to text a crisis responder if you need immediate help. To get help via text, send a message with the word “HELP” to 686868.
• Youth Space is an online support chat for youngsters living in Canada. It is open every day of the year from 6 PM till midnight PST. It is accessible to all youth, no matter their background, religion, sexual orientation, and race.
• EMentalHealth allows you to find mental health in your area. It is a directory with crisis and emergency numbers, counseling and therapy, and mental health facilities. You can use screening tools today to see if you have any mental health issues.
• Bounce Back is a skill-building program for youth 15+. It helps manage low mood and moderate depression, anxiety, stress, or worry. To use the program, you can visit a walk-in clinic or your primary care provider.

Depression

The number of Canadian students suffering from depression is genuinely staggering, and it keeps getting worse due to the COVID pandemic. However, it is good to know that there are many options available for Canadian youth to get mental health assistance.

The following websites and resources are focused on providing support to those battling depression:

Anxiety

A recent survey of Ontario University shows that between 2013 and 2016, the student population in Canada experienced a 50% increase in anxiety. Mental health professionals say that a mental health crisis is looming.

These websites aim to help people struggling with anxiety disorder:

Anxiety Panic Support

Anxiety Panic Support is a website that provides chat for people suffering from panic episodes. To use it, you need to be at least 14 years of age. The discussion is confidential and free of charge.

Living Life to the Full

Living Life to the Full is a free online course that teaches how to manage low moods and stress. The platform focuses on practical life skills. It is an excellent resource for students and young adults.

Anxiety Canada

Anxiety Canada offers an online therapy program. You need to download a free MindShift app for that. It will supposedly teach you how to relax and take charge of your anxiety. A fantastic resource for students as it is free and scientifically based. You can also use the directory to find local professionals to help you.

Eating Disorders

A considerable number of Canadians have a diagnosis connected with an Eating Disorder. Approximately 1 million residents have either anorexia, bulimia, or binge-eating disorder. That’s why many non-profit organizations in Canada focus on eating disorder awareness, prevention, and treatment that is affordable even for students.

1. Jessie’s Legacy  provides eating disorders prevention education and support for youth, families, educators, and professionals. You can attend an event to support the movement. Engage in the conversations shaping positive body image. The events are attended by people of all ages and are free of charge.
2. National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC) provides info, resources, referrals, and needed support to Canadian residents. The organization has a free-of-charge helpline from 9 AM – 9 PM Monday – Thursday and Friday from 9 AM – 5 PM EST.
3. Academy for Eating Disorders (AED) is a professional associating that is committed to learning eating disorders. The goal is to promote the treatment and to develop prevention programs.  

Addictions

Addiction is widespread among Canadian students and youth in general. Around 21% of the population suffer from some kind of addiction at least once in their lives. Thus, a lot of institutions and organizations try to haps with the crisis.

• Canada Drug Rehab – Addiction Services Directory. It is an excellent place to start to find help with addiction problems. You will find information about alcohol and drug rehab programs. Besides, there is data on eating disorders, sex addiction, gambling addictions, etc. There is also a toll-free helpline available 24/7.  
• BC. Problem Gambling Help Line. Gambling Support BC is a website that has free treatment and support services for anyone struggling with gambling. You can request support online or call the 24/7 toll-free helpline. 
• Addiction Guide. This is an online resource that covers all the type of addictions. It has tips, guides, and information about treatment options. There are other reliable resources for those trying to sober up. It is accessible worldwide, though Canada is in focus. 
• Addiction and Mental Health Services. The AMHS-KFLA has walk-in services, as well as a 24/7 crisis line. If you are not in crisis and looking for information on addiction, this website will be a one-stop shop. Their staff can help with housing and legal issues too. 
• Fredericton Addiction & Mental Health Services. This organization offers a wide range of addiction services. It is a free and voluntary service and can be accessed without a referral. Perfect for students! 

PTSD & Trauma

In this section of the article, you will find valuable resources for Canadian residents suffering from PTSD and Trauma. All of the organizations provide help to trauma sufferers for free, and students can use it.

LGBTIQ+ & Gender Issues

Discrimination, harm, and abuse lead many LGBTIQ+ people to struggle with various mental health issues. In this section, students can discover what services are available to them:

LGBT Youth Line

This hotline is a Queer, Trans youth-led organization. It affirms the experiences of youth (29 and under) in Ontario. They provide peer support, referrals, training, and resources entirely for free and confidential.

Trans Lifeline

Trans Lifeline provides peer support via a nationwide hotline. It is run by trans people and for trans people. The hours for the hotline are 10 AM to 10 PM. The operators are available in English and Spanish. It also offers financial help to trans people in crisis.

Affirm United – 2SLGBTQIA+ Support Groups in Canada

The LGBTQIA+ support line is nationwide and toll-free available  Sunday to Friday, 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM EST. The organization also offers support groups across Canada and beyond for all LGBTQIA+ youth.

LGBTQ+ & Trans Health Program – Centretown Community Health Centre

CCHC has a work-in counseling clinic offered on Wednesday from 12 – 6:30 PM for the LGBT2SQ+ and same-day phone appointments with a counselor. The health center supports trans and gender diverse people by running a trans health program.

Access Alliance

Access Alliance offers programs and services to LGBTQ+ newcomers. People new to Canada have specific issues such as language barriers, social isolation, poverty, etc. International students can use these services.

CultureLink Youth

CultureLink provides programs for new immigrants such as Newcomer Settlement Programs, Newcomer Youth and Seniors’ Services, and Green Settlement. These programs, activities, and services try to assist immigrant youth in overcoming barriers.

💂 UK Mental Health Resources

The UK is one of the countries that has widespread psychological health issues among teens and young adults. According to the survey of 2018, 1 out of 3 students experienced a severe mental challenge, which required professional help. Consequently, by 2021, young people in the United Kingdom have access to a considerable number of platforms that provide psychological assistance.

Let’s start with a few indispensable emergency numbers:

0300 123 3393 – Mind Infoline works for you from Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM.  The operators provide advice for a variety of mental state concerns.

116 123 – Samaritans are available day and night for those who have suicidal thoughts.

0800 068 4141 – HopeLine UK is another resource to assist those who are experiencing suicidal thoughts. Feel free to contact them on any day from 9 AM till midnight.

85258 – SHOUT is a free-of-charge and fully confidential text service for those who need psychological support. The resource is available for you 24/7.

You can reach other emergency services via – 999.

Now, let’s take a look at online resources that provide psychological support:

• Mind Infoline is an online resource that specializes in providing psychological assistance with any problem. It works for you 9 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Friday (except for bank holidays). The service is free of charge. However, remember that phone calls from UK landlines are charged at local rates, depending on your phone provider.
• Mental Health Foundation UK focuses on preventing mental disabilities by spreading information and educating people around the UK. You can use it for free whenever you want.
• Together UK  provides professional support for people in the UK with a wide range of psychological disorders. It operates 24/7 and doesn’t require payment.
• Rethink Mental Illness is a platform that cares about people affected by mental diseases and strives for a better life for them. Their online support via phone is accessible around the clock.
• Breaking The Silence SF includes a wide range of self-help guidelines for people who want to deal with anxiety or depression. Download the materials for free at any time convenient to you!
• CALL Community Advice and Listening Line (Wales) offers free text messaging and hotline support 24/7. The resource specialists deal with any kind of psychological disorders like depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, etc.  
• Calmzone is a community that leads a movement against suicide. The web chat and hotline are free and available every day from 5 PM to 12 AM.  
• Lifeline (N.Ireland) is a Northern Ireland organization that assists people in dealing with distress and despair. The hotline works 24 hours a day.
• The Mix (formerly Get Connected) is a source of essential support for young people experiencing psychological problems. The hotline and online chat are free of cost and accessible at any time of the day.
• National Youth Advocacy Service (England and Wales) is an organization that strives to empower the youth’s voices. The assistance is delivered in face-to-face meetings that should be arranged beforehand. Moreover, the hotline and chat are available at any time.
• YoungMinds UK is a website with a list of crucial contacts for any situation related to the human mental state. The information is free to use.
• Turning Point is a resource that offers professional assistance for a wide range of psychological concerns. People can try one-on-one meetings. 
• BipolarUK  is an online platform that cares about people with bipolar disorder and helps them live a fulfilled life. The website works every day.

Depression

Depression is one of the most widespread mental health illnesses among students in the UK. Are you one of those who are suffering from depression? Check out a list of valuable resources below!

1. Papyrus-UK aims to reduce the number of young people committing suicide by spreading awareness about this problem. Anyone who has ever had suicidal intentions should visit Papyrus. It is available 24/7.
2. Depression UK is a self-help organization that helps people to overcome depression. The resource offers fellowship and mutual support to anyone troubled by a depressive state. Buy the annual membership for £10 and seek assistance at any time of the day.
3. AWARE – Northern Ireland is a network of 23 support groups all around Northern Ireland. It spreads information about mental health. Moreover, AWARE organizes community events for people who have bipolar disorder or anxiety.
4. Breathing Space – Scotland hotline works for you 24/7. It’s cost-free. If you feel like your feelings and thoughts overwhelm you, visit this website. Share your concerns with a professional and receive valuable assistance.
5. Health in Mind – Scotland is a community that promotes well-being and mental health among young people in Scotland. Visit Health in Mind and check what services are available in your region.
6. The Maytree offers psychological email and telephone support. The professionals are available every day from 8 AM till 8 PM. What is more, The Maytree provides accommodation with a calm and safe environment for people experiencing suicidal thoughts.
7. Mood Swings is an organization that aids people in recovering from emotional distress or severe anxiety. The resource offers recovery workshops and online support. It’s suitable for anyone who experiences any kind of mental health disorder. 

Anxiety

Experiencing Anxiety? Don’t ignore this problem. 42.8% of students in the UK feel stressed and worried most of the time due to their studies and other problems.

Here, we’ve gathered the most valuable resources that help to deal with anxiety in the UK:

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are a persistent problem among young people in the UK. If you are one of those individuals, take a look at our list of resources.

In the UK, there are health lines for those who suffer from eating disorders:

Helpline (adult) – 0808 801 0677

Studentline – 0808 801 0811

Youthline – 0808 801 0711

Helplines work Monday till Friday 9 AM-8 PM. On weekends and bank holidays, they are open from 4 PM till 8 PM. Plus, there are websites available:

Beat Eating Disorders

Beat is a charity organization registered in England, Scotland, and Whales. The members of this group help to cope with eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia. Also, the national helpline provides instant support and prevents people from the severe consequences of eating disorders.

Anorexia & Bulimia Care (ABC)

Anorexia & Bulimia Care is an organization with over 30 years of experience and a considerable number of saved lives. It provides emotional support and valuable tips for anyone suffering from eating disorders.

Caraline

A national helpline 01582 457474 is available to you Monday to Friday 9 AM-5 PM (not including Bank Holidays). Get immediate emotional assistance and improve your well-being with Caraline.

Addictions

Do you like drinking alcoholic beverages? Do you take drugs lust to relieve stress? This might be a severe addiction. Take It seriously and seek psychological help via the following resources:

1. Action on Addiction. Experiencing a severe addiction to alcohol and drugs? The UK addictions charity will help you. Residential care, day treatment, outpatient counseling, and community services are available to you. 
2. We Are with You. It’s a charity organization that can provide a specialist to talk to. Receive a fully confidential and free consultation online or in one of the local offices in the UK. Search office locations on the website. 
3. Al-Anon Family Groups.The company provides psychological support to people whose relatives or friends are addicted to alcohol. Is your life affected by someone else’s drinking? Contact Al-Anon Family Groups via 0800 0086 811 every day from 10 AM to 10 PM. 
4. Change Grow Live. Change Grow Live focuses on providing emotional support to people with a severe dependency on drugs and alcohol. Assistance is distributed in local services. Visit the website and find the closest one for you. 
5. Phoenix Futures. It has more than 40 years of experience in overcoming drug and alcohol addiction. Select the service that suits you the most on the website. Addiction Recovery Agency. This organization offers psychological help to people with alcohol, drug, and gambling problems. The team of professionals strives to make the life of vulnerable people better. 
6. GamCare. Are you addicted to gambling? Or maybe someone else’s addiction is affecting you? GamCare is the biggest UK provider of free assistance and information for anyone negatively influenced by gambling. Call free 0808 8020 133. 

Alcohol

• Alcohol Change UK is a charity organization in the UK that works in 5 directions:
• to improve knowledge about alcohol harm;
• to adjust policies and regulations;
• to shift cultural norms;
• to improve drinking behavior;
• to provide good treatment for alcohol addicts.
• Alcohol Focus Scotland (only Scotland) is a group that works on the reduction of the impact of alcohol on people’s daily lives.
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an organization that strives to overcome alcohol addiction following the unique 12 steps of AA.
• Drinkline is an educational resource that informs how alcohol consumption may harm you or the surrounding people.

Drugs

• Talk to Frank is a mental support service. Call 0300 1236600 at any time of the day and get honest and reliable information about drugs.
• HumanKind is an online resource that aims to assist you in stopping your unwanted habits like drug abuse.
• UK Narcotics Anonymous is a website where you can receive support or advice on drug abuse. Call 0300 999 1212 on any day from 10 AM to midnight to get all the information and recommendations from a specialist.
• Release is an independent and registered charity organization that provides psychological help for drug addicts. Calls on helpline 020 7324 2989 are free.

PTSD & Trauma

PTSD and trauma are severe psychological disorders that require an immediate solution. Are you or someone you know experiencing one of the following mental health illnesses? Then check the following resources:

LGBTIQ+ & Gender Issues

The LGBT community has become one of the most discussed topics in the recent decade. Gender and sexuality issues are still considered very controversial by some people. Young individuals experience psychological pressure while discovering themselves. Therefore, there are a lot of resources available in the UK.

Let’s explore them! 

• LGBT Foundation. Are you lesbian, gay, non-binary, bisexual, or transgender? Do you feel uncomfortable in your environment? LGBT Foundation can help you out! Visit the website and find a lot of helpful information concerning this matter for free. Or call on 03453303030 and get instant support.
• EACH – Educational Action Challenging Homophobia. It is an organization that provides services to inspire bisexual, lesbian, gay, and transgender equality. The key aim is to educate people about the significance of the LGBTQ+ community’s struggles. Moreover, you can receive immediate advice on the helpline 0808 1000 143.
• Cara-Friend (N. Ireland). The community was created in Northern Ireland to empower the LGBTQ+ community. The website includes plenty of resources to help LGBTQ+ people cope with psychological pressure. Also, Cara-Friend organizes awareness training and community development sessions.
• FFLAG is a national voluntary organization and registered charity. Its main aim is to create an environment for exchanging information between the LGBTQ+ community members. Also, FFLAG spreads educational content through its posts on the website. For instant help, contact the support line on 03006880368 from 10 AM to 8 PM Wednesday to Saturday.
• The Pink Practice. The Pink Practice is a national LGBTQ+ counseling service that provides professional psychological assistance. Contact them on Monday – Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM on 02070604000.
• LGBT Youth Scotland. This is a national charity that aims to promote the rights of LGBT people. The organization also delivers information about the LGBT community to educational institutions to raise awareness regarding gender issues.
• One Body One Faith. It is an organization that strives to prove that LGBTQ+ representatives have their place in life and can belong to the Christian church. The group’s mission is to educate people. They talk of the connection between the individual’s sexuality and their religious background.
• Switchboard. Searching for advice and understanding? Switchboard is here for you! Contact them on 0300 330 0630 every day from 10 AM to 10 PM. Switchboard guarantees free service and full confidentiality. 

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

OCD is quite a common psychological disorder among students. Even though it might not seem like a severe illness to some people, the problem should not be ignored. Do you have any symptoms of OCD? Consider checking the following resources:

OCD Action

OCD Action is an organization that provides a wide range of services to help people cope with OCD. The website includes forums where people with the same diagnosis can share their experiences. Also, OCD Action offers email, Skype/Zoom, and local independent support groups. For immediate information, contact them on helpline 0300 636 5478.

OCD-UK

OCD-UK is a national organization with the critical mission to educate people about obsessive-compulsive disorder. It offers hope and support to people with such diagnoses. Visit the website to attend conferences and join forum discussions.

Mind – England & Wales

Mind – England & Wales offers various information to educate people on what OSD is and how to deal with it. The information here is freely available.

OCD – YoungMinds

OCD – YoungMinds is an online resource that provides mental health training for people with OCD. Just visit the website and find the most suitable course for yourself. Start your journey to a new life without mental health problems.

TOP UK

TOP UK is the association of professional clinical advisers that will help you to overcome OCD. Visit the website to get more information and learn details on prices.

🦘 Australia Mental Health Resources

A large number of international students come to Australia every year. Due to these growing numbers, a need for qualified psychological help for youngsters also grows. That’s how many accessible or affordable services for both international and domestic students came to place. In this section of the article, we will focus on them.

Let us start with the emergency numbers:

13 11 14 – Lifeline Australia is a 24/7 toll-free crisis support line. The service is confidential, and all the support specialists are trained to help those in crisis.

1800 55 1800 – Kids Helpline provides help to kids and young adults from 5 years old till 25. The helpline is open 24/7 and 365 days per year at no cost at

1300 22 4636 – Beyond Blue is a support service that provides advice via telephone 24/7, webchat (3 PM to 12 AM), and email (response provided within 24 hours).

13 52 47 – Samaritans is a service that allows people to contact the helpline with all sorts of worries. It is free of charge, completely confidential. Its operating hours are 8 AM – 8 PM (AWST).

1300 659 467 – Suicide callback service is a nationwide phone and online counseling. SCBS is available 24/7 and is offered absolutely for free.

1800 61 44 34 – The MindSpot Clinic is a digital mental health clinic for all Australians and permanent residents. It is a free, confidential assessment and treatment for adults. The Australian Government fully funded the service, which makes it accessible for anyone living in Australia. It is an excellent option for students.

You can reach other emergency services via 000.

For more information regarding online resources providing psychological assistance, we’ve combined the following list:

• Your Health in Mind is the first stop for Australian residents who are in search of psychological help. Through the website, you can use the directory to find a psychiatrist who practices in your area. It also has information about many mental illnesses such as addiction, PTSD, autism, bipolar disorder, and many more.
• Kids Helpline is a fantastic resource for kids, teens, young adults, parents, and school teachers. There are a lot of tools that help young visitors to understand their feelings and emotions. Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free, private, confidential 24/7 phone and online counseling service for young adults. Webchat and email ways of contacting are available through the website too.
• Lifeline Australia has an available chat between 7 PM to midnight AEST. It offers other support services, including face-to-face counseling, group support, and assistance with food and utility bills.
• SANE Australia is a national mental health charity that has a lot of helpful information on its website. It conveys useful tools starting from SANE support services and ending with factsheets and guides about different mental health problems. They also provide help to the family and friends who act as caregivers.
• Black Dog Institute is a non-profit facility for diagnosing and treating mental illnesses and mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD. The website provides many resources, mental health programs, and fact sheets.
• headspace has resources that cover a wide range of issues and topics. If you create a free account, you can access numerous online tools. Group chats, online communities, and 1:1 direct support with the headspace professionals become available.
• ReachOut Australia helps young people under 25s who go through hard times. The website provides tools and apps that will help you in the time of crisis. ReachOut is an entirely free service and is available all the time.
• Head to Health – Australian Government posts mental health resources about feelings, topics, conditions, and service providers. There is a lot of information on COVOD-19 Support as well. For example, there is Grief and Trauma support for those impacted by pandemics.
• Womens Health & Family Services Perth is a non-profit organization that provides help for women’s health issues. The website has services for women at every stage of their lives. It covers such issues as alcohol, drugs, dieting, eating disorders, etc.
• Suicide Call Back Service provides free counseling for suicide and mental health prevention for anyone affected by suicidal thoughts. SCBS has resources for supporting someone who is thinking about suicide. There is a chat for people who need someone to talk to at the moment of crisis.

Depression

Depression is a mental condition that affects millions of Australians. It influences the way you feel, think, and behave. More than 26% of Australian students experience clinical depression. That is why many accessible and affordable services help people suffering from this mental health condition.

1. BeyondBlue works on reducing the impact of depression and suicide in the community. It does it by raising awareness and empowering those who seek help. You can find signs, symptoms, and treatment of depression. To understand your feelings and options, you can take the quiz on the website.
2. Mood Gym is a self-book that helps you to learn the skills to manage symptoms of depression. It is anonymous, confidential, and recommended to persons above 18 years of age. Mood Gym individual access for 12 months costs $27. It is available in English and German.
3. MindSpot is an Australian government-funded health service. It has treatment courses that are backed by clinical trials. On the website, you can learn about emotional well-being, anxiety, depression, and coping resources. There is also an assessment tool available for free on the website. The MindSpot courses help adults aged 26–65 years old. It is recommended for people who have at least four hours per week to spend working on the system. It is not for people who are currently suicidal. Likewise, it would help if you also were an Australian resident.

Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in Australia. Around 83% of Australian students suffer from stress to the extent that it affects their health. The following resources can be used by young adults influences by this mental health condition:

Eating Disorders

About a third of Australian youngsters engage in eating disorder behaviors. Thus, plenty of services are available across the country to fight this problem. The following services are available to everyone residing in Australia:

Butterfly Foundation — Support for Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues

The Butterfly Foundation is an assistance line that offers confidential help for anyone with a question about negative body image. It can also aid you in getting a personalized coping strategy and information about treatment options.

National Eating Disorders Collaboration

It’s an excellent website for information on eating disorders. The directory provides an extended list of treatment services and programs, both cost-free and paid.

Eating Disorders Victoria — Services and Support

Eating Disorders Victoria is a state-based organization that gathered people in their path to recovery, caregivers, and specialists. It strives to support and give crucial education for people with eating disorders in Victoria. Support services are available through phone and email from Monday-Friday from 9:30 AM — 5 PM.

Eating Disorder Australian Survey Association – Diagnosis, Support and Help

EDASA focuses on providing information, workshops, and support groups for people in South Australia. Their services are suitable for students and young adults and free of charge.

Addictions

Many residents of Australia are affected by addiction. Around 1 in 20 Australians die due to alcohol or drug abuse. The following services will help those who want to change their lives and sober up:

• Alcoholics Anonymous is a cost-free and 24/7 service for people using alcohol and drugs. The service is also accessible to family members and friends. AA is not a treatment program; all members are recovering from alcoholism. However, it has been proven that recovery is much more successful when done in the group.
• Al-Anon Australian General Service Office is a fellowship of people affected by someone else’s drinking problem. It offers help to those who live in a family influenced by alcohol misuse. The electronic meetings are available for attendance. It’s free for the members.
• Counselling Online is a free alcohol and drug support chat. It’s confidential and can be joined at any time. There are various ways to use this online resource, such as talking with a counselor, finding a place to connect, and learning self-help strategies.
• Alcohol and Drug Foundation directs website users to credible information about alcohol and drug addiction. Its several search tools can help families and individuals find counseling services by entering their zip codes. Most of the programs listed on the website are affordable or free of charge.

PTSD & Trauma

Many Australians are exposed to traumatic events, which can lead to the development of PTSD. People with post-traumatic stress disorder experience long-term fears and anxiety that prevent them from functioning.

Check out the following services for students and young adults. They are for free or at a very affordable cost to better your mode of life:

1. White Ribbon is a social movement and an organization that tries to eliminate gendered violence in the community. Here, women can find qualified help and support services across Australia.
2. Domestic Violence Resource Centre Victoria is an organization that offers free training and other resources to people who have experienced or are experiencing family violence. It supports people in Victoria state by sharing their stories of sexual abuse. You can call them Monday to Friday from 9 AM — 5 PM.
3. Picking Up The Peaces is dedicated to educating people about PTSD to eliminate barriers to treatment. The resources posted on the website are valuable for the sufferers, caregivers, and also mental health professionals

LGBTIQ+ & Gender Issues

There are plenty of LGBTQI+ support services available throughout Australia. People in the community, more often than not, meet additional mental stress and stigma. That is why it’s so vital to find a support system.

These services are relevant to LGBTQI+ people, their families, and friends:

🥝 New Zealand Mental Health Resources

Being overwhelmed with studying and exams? Uncertain about the future? Feeling depressed and anxious? All these issues, along with the lockdown, resulted in many young people seeking psychological help in New Zealand.

There are, of course, hotlines for mental health issues: 

09 5222 999 (Auckland) – Lifeline provides psychological assistance for the residents of Auckland. For the rest of New Zealand, you can use another number.

0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) - Lifeline also offers mental health support and advice for all the people who live in New Zealand via that number. Call it 24/7 when you need help.Or text 4357 (HELP) for free.

0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) - Suicide Crisis Helpline deals with suicidal intentions of individuals. You can call them when you or someone you know are in crisis.

You can reach other emergency services by calling 111 or find more helplines on Talking Minds.

For online support or information about mental health, check the following resources:

• The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand is a charity organization. It works to create a society free of discrimination, where people take care of their mental health. The organization helps individuals, organizations, and communities. When in crisis, anyone can check the website and get support from a trained counselor.
• Depression & Anxiety Help (Maori Community) helps individuals understand and recognize depression and anxiety. If you need to talk to a trained counselor, you may call their hotline, text, or email the organization.
• Depression & Anxiety Help (Pasifika Community) is another site for a particular group. Pasifika communities come from many cultures and speak different languages. It might create difficulties when talking about mental health. The website offers free of charge depression helpline with trained counselors. However, if you wish to communicate face-to-face with a psychologist, you will have to pay.
• The Lowdown helps young New Zealanders understand depression and anxiety. On the website, individuals can find information on these disorders and places to go get help. Besides, there are numbers you can text for free if you need to talk.
• What’s Up is a free nationally available counseling helpline for children and teens. Phone assistance is available Monday-Friday at 12 PM-11 PM, on weekends, 3 PM-11 PM. Chats are open Monday-Friday 1 PM-10 PM, on weekends, 3 PM-10 PM.
• Just a Thought is an online learning tool for everybody. It is free and works 24/7. It’s been tested and proven to help people with mild symptoms of anxiety and depression. Note that the service is intended for individuals older than 16, with no severe distress or suicidal thoughts.
• Asian Family Services was established to provide counseling for Asians in New Zealand. The helpline is available Monday to Friday between 9 AM – 8 PM. To be clear, it is not a crisis helpline. If the person presents suicidal intentions, the counselors will assist them anyway.
• GROW is a volunteer association of individuals who know they need to correct their mental and social conditions. The meetings are held in groups of 5 to 9 people. They are free of charge, but a donation would be appreciated. If you can’t be physically present at the meeting, there is an option to connect via Zoom.
• Mental Wealth is a program aimed to equip young people and families with knowledge, tools, and skills to improve well-being. It helps notice warning signs about mental disorders. If a person needs to talk, the website offers a free call or text at any time.

Depression

This is one of the most common reasons people seek mental support anywhere, and New Zealand is not an exception. This section will touch on the websites where one can get help when feeling depressed.

1. Depression Helpline aims to reduce the impact of depression and anxiety on people. To get help, you can call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 for free. Talk to a trained counselor about your feelings to gain a fresh perspective.
2. SPARX helps young people learn and practice skills to reduce depression. It provides all the online tools for students to learn about their mental state.
3. ThroughBlue is the website that supports and educates women who experienced depression. The group meetings are held every Monday 6:30 – 8:30 PM and Friday 12:30 – 2:30 PM. If one cannot attend a meeting, there is a possibility to join a hybrid online Zoom group.

Anxiety

Another common reason for people to refer to specialists is anxiety. About 15% of New Zealand’s population is affected at any given moment. In case, for some reason, you cannot see a professional, several websites offer help.

1. Anxiety NZ helps children, teens, and adults with different mental health issues. The focus is on anxiety and stress, but Anxiety NZ also covers depression, panic attacks, phobias, and OCD. There is a free helpline – 0800 269 4389 (0800 ANXIETY). It works 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
2. Anxiety New Zealand Trust  is a charitable organization that helps people with anxiety disorders. ANZT provides 24 hours anxiety helpline – 0800 2694 38. There are also peer support groups on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.
3. Empower Therapies offers a course to work through anxiety issues. The starter pack is free and includes a two-hour webinar and some basic techniques to use on oneself. However, the whole course is not free.

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are harmful, biologically influences illnesses. If left untreated, it leaves a terrible impact on the person and their families. In this section, we’ll show some websites that offer help for people with these illnesses.

Addictions

Addictions can seriously impair one’s life, ruin relationships and financial status. They can even push people toward criminal activity. Thus, it is necessary to seek support. Here, we have collected several websites that provide help to people with addictions and their families.

• Alcohol and Drug Helpline. The service provides friendly, non-judgmental help and support. The helpline and chat work 24 hours, 7 days a week. The calls are free and anonymous.
• Gambling Helpline. This is national freephone support that helps people affected by gambling. The service offers telephone counselors at any time via 0800 654 655. Young adults can find their chats helpful as well.
• Quit Line. A freephone helpline and chat that supports people to quit smoking. Quit Line is available 24/7. People can call 0800 778 778 for free for an immediate consultation.
• Drug Help. This is a program that offers tools based on proven methods to moderate drug use disorder. Drug Help contains information and tools to help overcome substance use.
• Safer Gambling. The website offers a program that focuses on society’s understanding of gambling-related harms. It has support and information for people with gambling issues. One can call the support line (0800 654 655), send a free text (8006), and find information about local support.

PTSD & Trauma

Being traumatized or constantly abused can lead to severe consequences. To eliminate the possibility of facing them, a victim should seek help. In this section, we’ve listed several websites that can assist an individual with counseling or information in New Zealand.

• Skylight Trust. People of all ages can get help from Skylight Trust if they have experienced grief, loss, or trauma. On their website, they offer counseling and support groups. Besides, you can find information about other organizations that can help for free.
• Are You OK. The website offers a family information line that provides info about appropriate services. It’s available seven days a week, from 9 AM to 11 PM. Are You OK also offers information for people experiencing violence and advice about violence prevention.
• Shine. There is a free 24/7 helpline – 0508 744 633. You can call if you’re feeling trapped, controlled, or physically or emotionally abused by a partner. On the Shine website, there is also an online chat that you can use if you want to communicate.
• Women’s Refuge Crisis Line. On the website, you can find a 24hr crisis line. Additionally, there is information about violence and safe housing. It’s suitable for women, children, and young people who experienced abuse.
• Shakti Crisis Line. This is a non-profit organization that specializes in the area of domestic/family violence prevention. It was created to help women and children of Asian, African, and Middle Eastern origin. There is a crisis helpline in case you need to talk to someone – 0800 742 584.

LGBTIQ+ & Gender Issues

Exploring gender and sexuality can be pretty challenging. Combined with societal pressure, it can take a toll on one’s mental health. Young adults, in particular, should get the necessary support and information about the topic.

Here are some websites that offer help to the LGBTIQ+ community members:

🧾 Where Can a Student Get Free Therapy?

We have provided quite a few online resources with psychological help, but this still may not be enough. Some people need therapy, even though it is not always available. Many students don’t have extra money or insurance, or their insurance does not cover such assistance. Fortunately, there are therapy options available that you don’t have to pay for.

Affordable or free counseling options are as follows:

1. College counseling services. 

If you’re a student, you can get therapy from the school’s counseling center. Some of them offer help with a range of diagnoses, while others treat particular issues. In some centers, you can get a limited number of sessions provided for free. Specialists can refer students to other professions with a discount.

2. Community social services. 

Such services are often funded by non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, and taxes. Therefore, they can offer discounted mental health services to people who need them. Yes, students included. The services might vary in different areas, yet communities usually have those.

3. Non-profit organizations. 

These institutions match people with middle- and lower-income levels with affordable mental health services. The costs might vary from organization to organization. However, they usually come with different discounts, for students in particular.

4. Crisis hotlines. 

Helplines don’t offer therapy. Yet, they are free and can help you locate chargeless or affordable treatment nearby. You can find the hotline numbers according to your country – we’ve listed a few above. Also, some churches, communities, and local organizations have their helplines.

5. Sliding-scale therapy. 

Sliding-scale fees mean that the amount you pay for therapy is based on how much you can afford. To get them, you need to provide documentation of your income. Keep in mind that therapists offer a limited number of sliding-scale therapy slots. Thus, it’s critical to ask beforehand about them.

6. Therapist interns. 

Before becoming a licensed practitioner, therapists need a certain number of hours to become accredited. That’s why they often offer free or discounted therapy sessions. They usually work under the close supervision of a licensed counselor. It ensures that people get quality help.

7. Peer support groups. 

Support groups aren’t therapy, but they surely help. Such groups can help people feel less alone and supplement professional treatment. We’ve provided a lot of them in the sections above.

Thanks for your attention! We hope now you know where to turn if you or your close ones need psychological help. Share the page with those who may need these resources.