Online mental health communities and forums

Online communities and forums are a valuable space for social-connectedness and social-belonging, particularly for young people who are traditionally isolated by mental health difficulties. Connect your students with our recommended online communities and forums.

These will help with:

• social-connectedness and belonging

• reducing isolation

• sharing mental health strategies and positive help-seeking experiences.

Kids Helpline

MyCircle is Kids Helpline’s dedicated online community for young people aged 13-25 across Australia. It’s a free, private and confidential space supported by Kids Helpline counsellors, where you can connect with others, share experiences, and learn from each other. Kids Helpline also offers 24/7 phone and online chat support.

MOST

MOST is a free, safe digital mental health service for young people aged 12-25. It offers access to a supportive online community, peer, career and clinical support, and tools to help you manage your mental health. If you’re aged 15-25 you can sign up online via the MOST app or website. If you’re 12-14, you’ll need a referral from a partnering service to join MOST.

headspace

headspace online communities is headspace’s moderated space for young people to share resources and support each other. It offers peer-led group chats on a range of topics, and dedicated spaces for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, the LGBTQIA+ community, and adults supporting young people. headspace also provides online chat and phone support and in-person counselling, as well as study and career support.

beyondblue Online Forums

Discussion forums on dealing with depression, mood disorders and anxiety. All ages. Website: beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums

BITE BACK

Online positive psychology website/community for young people. Ages 12-18 years. Website: biteback.org.au

Eating Disorders Victoria Recovery Forum

Online community for young people recovering from an eating disorder, their friends and carers, and those concerned they may have an eating disorder. Chat room and forums. Ages 16+. Website: eatingdisorders.saneforums.org

Livewire

Online community for young people living with a serious illness, chronic health condition or disability, and their families. Run by Starlight Children’s Foundation. Ages 10-20 years and their parents. Website: livewire.org.au

MensLine Forums

Online support forum for men of all ages, run by MensLine Australia. Ages 18+, men only. Website: mensline.org.au/default.aspx

QLife forums

Australia-wide anonymous, LGBTI peer support and referral for people wanting to talk about a range of issues including sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships. Available 3pm-9pm every day and moderated by trained LGBTQIA+ community members. All ages. Website: qlife.org.au/