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SARAH MOON

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

We (the producers of Life Beyond Christine) take mental health seriously. We also know that it can be a minefield navigating mental health support. With this in mind, below is a list of resources that we recommend when it comes to supporting yourself and others in times of crisis.

This list is extensive but not comprehensive. There are always other services available depending on your circumstances. We encourage you to find something that’s right for you. If you feel uncomfortable with a service or provider you’re currently accessing, trust your instincts; you can always seek out another.

AUSTRALIA:

Emergency crisis support:

  • Lifeline – call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online
  • The Suicide Call Back Service offers 24/7 free counselling for people at risk of suicide, as well as carers and bereaved – 1300 659 467
  • In times of extreme crisis (including self harm and suicidality), it can be useful to go to your nearest ER, where you’ll be connected with further support, including professional help or a Crisis Support Team.
  • Connect directly with your state’s Crisis Support Team:
    Crisis Support Teams (also referred to as Crisis Assessment Treatment Teams or Psychiatric Emergency Teams) are based in major hospitals across Australia.
    ACT: 1800 629 354
    NSW: 1800 011 511
    NT: 1800 682 288
    Qld: 1300 MH CALL (1300 64 22 55)
    SA: 13 14 65 FREE
    Tas: 1800 332 388
    Vic: Call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24
    WA: 1800 676 822

For advice, referrals and other support, including help supporting others:

  • Beyond Blue offers 24/7 advice, referrals and support from trained mental health professionals, including an online chat service – 1300 22 4636
  • Head to health is a Federal Government platform that combines a concoction of programs, forums and services, including advice, assessment and referrals.
  • SANE is an online platform that includes community forums and weekly support groups.
  • A trusted GP can also guide you and provide you with a MHCP (mental health care plan) for psychologist services.
  • You can always check with your employer or union for specific services that may be available to you.

INTERNATIONAL:

As we are an Australian production, we have no experience with international services and can’t confidently recommend a single service.

Options for global mental health support can be found on CheckPoint.

OTHER RESOURCES:

Moonlight blog is a mental health and personal development blog by Sarah Moon. The blog aims to help readers feel empowered and less alone in their struggles.
A couple of recommended articles include:

Mental Health: breaking the stigma
13 reasons why I choose life over death

Things to remember:

Know that things can always get better.

Life Beyond Christine is based on real experiences. And as in the film, the real-life individuals behind the story also went on to survive and thrive.

 

Know that you are never alone.

Connection helps us to heal. There are plenty of people out there who want to help – and yes, this does include therapists.

 

Know that nobody can take your power from you unless you let them.

We want to stress that Life Beyond Christine isn’t anti-therapy. The film aims to hold those in a position of power accountable because of the damage that can be done when they abuse that authority. We want to underline the importance of reaching out to others for support while also promoting that you be mindful of who you listen to and whom you hold in esteem. It’s easy to give our power away to others, particularly when they have credentials or appear superior, all-knowing or more experienced. Trust your intuition – it will guide you.

‘Power is a dangerous thing. Be careful that you don’t abuse it or let it make a tyrant of you.’
– Louisa May Alcott