Mental Health Support
Drought Recovery
What is Drought Mental Health Support?
We offer free and confidential mental health support for people living in drought‑affected regions.
Drought is affecting many people in our community and we understand how tough it can be. If you or someone you know is struggling or not feeling quite themselves, we’re here to help.
You don’t need to be in crisis to reach out. We can support you with things like managing stress, finding a way forward when you feel stuck or simply having someone to talk to.
Whether you’re looking for a listening ear or practical support, we’re here for you and your family.
Experiencing a mental health crisis?
Call the Mental Health Triage Service, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, on 13 14 65 or view a list of urgent mental health services below.
Get in touch today.
If you would like more information about the program or to speak with someone about getting support, please contact our friendly team.
- Call:
- Flinders and Upper North
Melissa – 0483 166 769 - Yorke and Northern
Natalya – 0400 868 315 - Barossa Hills Fleurieu
Kate – 0417 048 958 - Riverland Murray Mallee Coorong
Anthea – 0447 332 780
- Flinders and Upper North
- Email droughtsupport@unitingsa.com.au
- Send an online enquiry
How can we help?
Our service is flexible, person-centred and built around what matters to you. Support is tailored to your needs, so it can look different for everyone. We can help you to:
- Talk things through and feel more in control
- Strengthen relationships or connect with your local community
- Develop helpful habits and healthy coping strategies
- Navigate the healthcare and other systems
- Access drought related financial counselling and other supports
- Get involved in local community or recreational activities
- Explore options for education, training, employment or volunteer work
- And more
Who can we help?
Anyone who is affected by drought in the following regions:
- Barossa Hills Fleurieu
- Riverland Murraylands Mallee Coorong
- Flinders and Upper North
- Yorke and Northern
When is the service available?
Our friendly staff are available to support you over the phone or face to face, during weekdays from 9am to 5pm.
FAQs
What is drought mental health support?
It’s a free and confidential service delivered by a dedicated team of professionals who are here to support you during periods of drought.
Who is eligible for mental health support in drought-affected areas of South Australia?
Anyone living in drought affected regions can access our support.
Eligible areas include:
- Flinders and Upper North: Whyalla, Port Augusta and Quorn
- Yorke and Northern: Port Pirie, Port Broughton, Maitland and Clare
- Riverland Murray Mallee Coorong: Murray Bridge, Pinnaroo, Swan Reach and Karoonda
- Barossa Hills Fleurieu: Robertstown, Nuriootpa, Sedan, Dublin and Nairne
Do I need to be a farmer to access this service?
No. We support anyone in a drought affected community. Whether you’re a local business owner, hobby farmer or small scale producer, you can reach out whenever you feel like you need to chat with someone.
I value my privacy and don’t want anyone to know that I am getting support
We take your privacy seriously. Our staff travel in unmarked vehicles and wear no uniforms to ensure discretion. We also operate in accordance with the Privacy Act, always protecting your confidentiality.
Who will be supporting me?
Our employees live and work in drought affected regions giving them a deep understanding of local challenges. They are also qualified professionals trained in mental health support.
Do I need a referral?
No referral, diagnosis or Mental Health Care Plan is required. You can contact us directly by calling or submitting an enquiry form.
Can I access support remotely or by phone if I live in a remote area?
Yes. While we are happy to meet face to face, we can also provide support by phone or via video chat if you live remotely.
Is help available for families and carers of people impacted by drought?
Absolutely. We provide support for individuals, families and carers affected by drought.
What should I do in a mental health emergency?
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please contact the Mental Health Triage Service available 24/7 on 13 14 65.
What regions does UnitingSA cover for drought mental health support?
Our team covers the following regions:
- Flinders and Upper North – Melissa: 0483 166 769
- Yorke and Northern – Natalya: 0400 868 315
- Barossa Hills Fleurieu – Kate: 0417 048 958
- Riverland Murray Mallee Coorong – Anthea: 0447 332 780
Is drought mental health support free?
Yes, our service is completely free.
What types of support can I receive?
We provide the following support:
- Talk things through so you feel more in control
- Strengthen relationships or connect with your local community
- Develop helpful habits and healthy coping strategies
- Navigate the healthcare system and other services
- Access drought related financial counselling and other supports
- Get involved in local community or recreational activities
- Explore options for education, training, employment or volunteer work
- And more
Enquire now
Need help now?
If you require urgent mental health support, or are experiencing a mental health emergency or crisis, please get in touch with one of these support services.
- Lifeline:
13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au - Suicide Call Back Service:
1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au - Beyond Blue:
1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au - Kids Helpline:
1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au - headspace:
1800 650 890 or headspace.org.au - ReachOut:
ReachOut.com
More resources can be found at the Mental Health Coalition of South Australia website.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency or are in immediate danger, call 000.