Transcultural Mental Health Centre launches Australia's first multicultural mental health line

The NSW Transcultural Mental Health Centre (TMHC) has announced the launch of the Transcultural Mental Health Line (TMHL) to support people who are from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, by connecting them to experienced clinicians who understand their culture and can communicate in their language.

The service provides brief over-the-phone and telehealth support for callers, including in-language information, and support for carers and family members of a person with a mental health concern. It also provides information for callers on how to access mental health care and connect them with relevant services and community support.

The TMHL accepts self-referrals only, as it is set up to reach and provide a direct service to consumers. Consumers who don’t speak English or have limited English proficiency can call the National Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 131 450 to be connected to TMHL with the help of an interpreter. Alternatively, carers, family members, friends or service providers can assist the consumer by phoning TMHL on their behalf, with the consumer present at the time of the call.

The Transcultural Mental Health Line can be accessed by telephone on 1800 648 911 from 9:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday to Friday.