How to get support

Open Arms makes it easy to get support for yourself or someone you care about.

Who we help

We provide free and confidential counselling, group programs and peer support to anyone who has served at least one day in the Navy, Army or Air Force, and their families. 

See: Who we help

What to expect when you contact us

The following table describes our contact process:

Step

Action

1

Speak to us by calling 1800 011 046 or visiting one of our offices. Or, if you use our online contact form, we will contact you by phone or email

2

Answer some questions about your situation. This can be a brief conversation or might include a longer interview to help identify the most appropriate services and support for you
Note: If you are distressed or in crisis, you will be transferred to speak to a counsellor immediately

3

We will link you to the most suitable services, for example, an Open Arms counsellor, peer worker, specialist service or treatment program that best suits your needs

4

We welcome your feedback. Let us know how we are doing or if there is more we can do to help you
See also: Counselling > What to expect and

Confidentiality

Your confidentiality and privacy are extremely important to us.

We won't share your information with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), Australian Defence Force (ADF), other government agencies or external parties without your consent. Your information is only allowed to be shared under exceptional circumstances such as where your safety or the safety of others is at serious risk, in serious criminal matters, or when required by law.

If you have been referred through your ADF medical officer or Defence psychologist, periodic reports regarding your treatment will be provided to the ADF Referring Authority.

Open Arms services

We understand the common issues facing serving and ex-serving ADF members and their families.

Our services include:

We have counsellors in major city centres and outreach counsellors that service all of Australia.

Open Arms is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week on 1800 011 046.

Get support

Contact us by:

  • phone - call 1800 011 046 and let us know what's going on
  • web form - contact us through our website contact form
  • visiting - one of our offices across Australia 
  • referral - from your GP or health officer

See also

  • man looking out into wilderness

    Signs & symptoms

    There are signs and symptoms to be aware of that could be an early indication of an emerging mental health issue. This may include feeling down or anxious, persistent worry, or issues in everyday life such as poor sleep or pain.
  • two men running

    Living well

    A range of services are available to the current and ex-serving community and their families to stay healthy.
  • women on computer taking quiz

    Self-help tools

    These tools provide practical information and exercises for those affected by mental health or trauma to help improve wellbeing.