About 1 in 5 Australians have a disability, or over 4 million people. Figures show that people with a disability are more likely to report psychological distress, which has a huge impact on mental health. So it’s important to seek help that's appropriate.
Mental health
Disability support services
Need urgent support?
You’re not alone. If you’re in distress and need to speak to someone, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
If you're unsure which service is right for you, we recommend visiting your GP for advice.
The support services listed on this page do not cover every disability and/or condition.
Adults with a disability are 24% more likely to experience high or very high levels of psychological distress than adults without disability.
Australian Institute of Heath and Welfare (2022). Health of people with disability. AIHW.
Disability
One-on-one
In-person
Virtual
This support pathway is suitable for people with a disability, or their carers. Carers also play an important part in providing care and support to family members and friends who have a disability, or mental illness.
The services below are disability-specific support services, the other services listed may also be appropriate for people with disability.
Reasons to use this service
- Looking for trained practitioners with experience in providing health support to people with a disability.
- Need to address concerns specific to a disability or condition/s.
- Information about other services available.
- Tailored services based on need.
Things to consider
- Might need adjustments to apply lifestyle recommendations (e.g. to increase physical activity).
- Telehealth not appropriate for people with hearing impairment.
- Rebates apply to those with a chronic, not temporary, disability.
Explore disability support services
Carers Australia
Provides many services to support unpaid carers in their caring role, including in-person and phone counselling, peer support groups, and online coaching.
National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline
The hotline is a free, independent and confidential service for reporting abuse and neglect of people with disability.
Ask Izzy
An online tool for people with disabilities, carers, and their families to search for independent, government-funded disability advocacy providers in the area.
National Relay Service (NRS)
Relay officers act as a ‘relay’ or a bridge between people who are d/Deaf hard of hearing or have speech communication difficulty, and the person or organisation they are calling.
Are you in need of urgent support?
We've put together a list of services for free support that's relevant to where you live, and what you're going through.
Discover free online treatment programs
This Way Up is an online program to learn practical tips for managing mental health. It’s a new way to do therapy from the comfort of your own home.
Bupa members can access one free mental health and wellbeing treatment program.
These resources are not intended to be a comprehensive list or to represent that Bupa endorses any specific health practitioner or program. Everyone’s health journey is individual and health outcomes can vary from person to person. These resources are also not intended to be a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare or other professional advice. If you have any concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.