Mental Health Resources
You don't have to go through it alone.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000 now. If you can’t talk, you can text Lifeline anytime on 0477 13 11 14.
Mental health is at the heart of why Vipers exists. We take it seriously and we want to make sure you have the resources you need. Whether you're a member, thinking about joining, or just someone who needs support right now.
If You Need Help Now
Lifeline - 13 11 14. Call or text 0477 13 11 14, any time. Crisis support and suicide prevention.
Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467. Phone and online counselling for anyone affected by suicide.
Mental Health Line (NSW) - 1800 011 511. 24/7. Talk to a clinician and get pointed to the right local help.
13YARN - 13 92 76. 24/7 support, by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636. Support for anxiety, depression and suicide prevention.
MensLine Australia - 1300 789 978. Support for men dealing with relationships, family or whatever's going on.
1800RESPECT - 1800 737 732. Support for sexual assault, domestic and family violence.
Kids Helpline - 1800 551 800. Free, confidential support for anyone aged 5 to 25.
Family Drug Support - 1300 368 186. 24/7 help for families dealing with alcohol and other drugs.
Local (Northern Beaches)
Lifeline Northern Beaches (our partner) - 9949 5522. Low-cost local counselling and support groups.
Northern Beaches Hospital, Mental Health - 9105 5340.
Your local GP - a good first step for advice, referrals and a mental health plan.
Northern Beaches Council Mental Health Services - a fuller local directory, kept up to date by the Council.
How Vipers Supports Mental Health
We have over 50 trained Mental Health First Aiders across the club, thanks to our partnership with Lifeline Northern Beaches. Members have also completed the Accidental Counsellor course. That means there's always someone in the community who's trained to have the conversation and point you in the right direction.
If you're a Viper and you're struggling, here are some first steps. Reach out to a mate or a member you trust. Seek professional support and ask the group for local psychologist referrals (you won't be the first). Lean into the club through sessions and social activities. Running, connection and a sense of belonging are all proven to support mental health.
Resources and Articles
What to Do When You Feel Overwhelmed by Life's Pressures
Northern Beaches Men's Groups Directory
Support for Men During Difficult Times
Why This Matters
In Australia, suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 44. Seven blokes are lost every day. Over half of men aged 35 to 50 meet the criteria for loneliness, and those who lack close mates are twice as likely to experience suicidal thoughts. (Source: Australian Institute of Family Studies)
Almost one in four Australian men say they wouldn't seek help from anyone for their mental health. (Source: Beyond Blue) That's why communities like Vipers matter. Because sometimes the most powerful thing is just having someone running next to you.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out.
Lifeline: 13 11 14 | Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 | Emergency: 000
Vipers is a bunch of mates, not a crisis service. If things are heavy right now, please reach out to one of the services above. They're trained, they're there any time of day or night, and you won't be a burden.