Mental Health Awareness Campaign

Anxiety and depression affect more people in our community than we often realise – yet too many suffer in silence. This project is about breaking that silence. By sharing real stories from locals and connecting people with trusted local resources, we aim to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and make it easier to recognise the signs and reach out for help. Through a targeted Facebook campaign and this dedicated space, our focus is on early intervention, open conversations, and ensuring that everyone knows support is close by and accessible.

If you’re struggling right now, you don’t have to go through it alone. Scroll down for local resources and support services that can help.

We’ll also be launching a podcast soon, sharing honest conversations, lived experiences and advice from experts within the mental health space to keep the dialogue going. Watch this page for updates and new content as the project grows.

Local Voices: What is Anxiety & Depression?

Anxiety and depression can be difficult to put into words. They’re not always easy to recognise, and they can feel different for everyone. To help open up the conversation, we asked local people to share their candid thoughts, interpretations, and ideas about what these conditions mean to them and how they might show up in everyday life.

Headspace
For young people under 25

Headspace Melton: (03) 8065 5600
Headspace Ballarat: (03) 5304 4777

*At your first appointment, a clinician will work with you to find the best supports – whether that’s with their onsite team, or a referral elsewhere. Phone and online support also available.

Counselling Services
Western Health

Phone: (03) 9747 7609

Locations: Melton Health & Community Services, Bacchus Marsh Community Health Centre, Caroline Springs Community Health Centre.

*Services are low cost or free, depending on circumstances.

Mood Gym
Free, Interactive skills training for depression and anxiety.
www.moodgym.com.au 

E-couch
Free, manage and prevent the symptoms of common mental health issues.
www.ecouch.com.au

This Way Up
Online training for anxiety/depression. ($59 fee)
www.thiswayup.org.au

PANDA Helpline
1300 726 306
PANDA’s National Perinatal Mental Health Helpline is Australia’s only free national helpline for people affected by changes to their mental health and emotional wellbeing during the perinatal period.

Gidget Foundation
1300 851 758
Free telehealth counselling for expectant and new parents.