How can we help?

Our mental health program

Caring for somebody with a mental illness can be difficult and confusing. The illness may cause them to think, feel or behave in ways that are hard to understand or cope with.

Our mental health program

Caring for somebody with a mental illness can be difficult and confusing. The illness may cause them to think, feel or behave in ways that are hard to understand or cope with.

It is important to remember that you are not to blame for the illness, nor is the person you care for. It is not something to be ashamed of.

The Respite Connections mental health team operates in the Western Metropolitan region of Melbourne, providing expert and local advice, support in times of crisis, and the tools you need to plan for the future.

We can help you link up with local services and supports that understand what you are going through and can help make your caring role easier.

Who do we help?

You can access our mental health services if you:

  • Care for a family member or friend of any age who is experiencing a mental illness; and you
  • Live in the local government areas of Melbourne, Moonee Valley, Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Melton, Wyndham, Hobsons Bay or the Sunbury Township.

If you are caring for somebody aged 65 or older you may be able to access our aged care services.

If you live in a local government area not covered by us you may be able to use similar services provided by one of the other respite and carer support organisations across Victoria.

How can we help?

  • We offer support and give you the chance to talk to somebody
  • We arrange respite and may be able to help with the costs
  • We give workshops on topics of interest to carers
  • We provide information about appropriate respite options that may be available
  • We link you to other services that may be able to help
  • We put you in touch with carer support groups where you can meet other people in similar situations

We work hard to raise the profile of caring families in the West, partnering with other organisations to help them to develop services that are sensitive to the needs of people who have a mental illness and to the needs of the families that care for them.

Arrange a referral

Freecall 1800 052 222 anywhere in the Western Metropolitan region of Melbourne (free call from landlines, mobile calls at mobile rates). Our staff can assess your eligibility and make a direct referral.

You can also ask your GP, case manager or support worker to make a referral with your consent.

Your confidentiality and privacy

Our mental health program is completely confidential and we handle the personal information you share with us according to the legal standards set by government. Read our privacy policy for more information.

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