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Mental health

Understanding your mental health

Being mentally healthy allows us to cope with stress and lead happier and healthier lives.

Use our free MindFit Self-Assessment Tool and watch this video to assess your mental health. Identify mental distress and take steps to support your mental wellbeing through self-care, a mental health support service, or a mental health crisis service.

Mental health and self-care

Self-care is the practice of taking care of ourselves so that we can stay physically, mentally and emotionally well. Self-care is different for everyone.

Some examples of activities that may help you to feel psychologically safe, include:

  • meditation
  • journalling thoughts and feelings
  • writing down three things you are grateful for
  • spending time with loved ones.

Mental health is closely linked to physical health. To improve your wellbeing try:

  • walking outdoors
  • eating a healthy balanced diet
  • making sure you are getting enough sleep
  • exercising for a recommended 30 minutes each day.

Self-help resources

  • This way up – free practical tools and guides to learn how to support your mental health
  • Wayahead Directory – an online directory for mental health and community services near you

Financial health

Your financial health can affect your mental health. Understand how to get on top of your finances and reduce money-related stress with this video from Zoe Wooldridge and the Finance Matters team.

Mental health support

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

EAPS is a free telephone and face-to-face support service available to all employees, volunteers and their friends and families. Individuals are entitled to four sessions per issue per year. To get in contact call them 1300 687 327.

Learn more about EAPS from a NSW Ambulance senior psychologist in this video.

Chaplaincy services

NSW Ambulance chaplains provide non-judgmental support to staff and their families. Chaplains can assist in navigating loss and grief, personal challenges and family issues.

They can also provide spiritual guidance and access to other faith-based welfare services.

Learn more about NSW Ambulance chaplains in this video below or get in touch with AMBULANCE-Chaplains@health.nsw.gov.au

Sexual and domestic violence

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au.

For men who need help and support call MensLine on 1300 78 99 78 or go to mensline.org.au.

NSW Ambulance Domestic Violence Referral Officers (DVROs) provide confidential advice and support to employees disclosing domestic or family violence.

To find out more about Domestic Violence Referral Program, download the service guide.

Mental health crisis support

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing a mental health crisis, or needs immediate support the following services are available. Many are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (24/7).

  • Qlife anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ support 1800 184 527

Need immediate support?

NSW Ambulance employees and their immediate family members can contact our Employee Assistance Program (EAPs) on 1300 687 327 to speak with a psychologist. This service is free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, every day of the week.

Contact us

Email the Family Support Network team via AMBULANCE-FamilySupport@health.nsw.gov.au