0800 ANXIETY Helpline

0800 ANXIETY HELPLINE

Need Support Now? We're Here to Listen.

Are you feeling stressed or anxious? Waea mai ki a mātau - give us a call! Our team is available nation-wide, 24/7 to offer support, guidance, and care.

Need Immediate Help?

If you are worried about the safety of a loved one, or someone else, you can call the Crisis Team on 0800 800 717 or dial 111 in an emergency.

Important numbers and resources to find advice and support at a time of crisis or distress:

Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.
Lifeline 0800 543 354 or (09) 522 2999 | Free text 4357 (HELP)
Youthline 0800 376 633
Samaritans 0800 726 666
If you or someone you know is at risk of harm: dial 111 or visit your nearest hospital emergency department.
Call 0800 611 116 for your nearest DHB Mental Health Crisis Team (CATT Team).

Do you need support? Yellow Brick Road is a national organisation that provides support for whānau who have a loved one experiencing mental health challenges.

For more information about helping family / whānau visit mentalhealth.org.nz

If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed, support is just a call away.

How We Can Help (Helpline FAQ)

If you are feeling unsure about calling the 0800 ANXIETY Helpline, here are some details to help answer some questions you may have.

Who will I be talking to?

When you call the Helpline, you will speak to a real person who is a part of our Helpline Team.

If you are experiencing anxiety or panic and don't know what to do, our Helpline Team is specially trained and are well-equipped to walk and talk you through the experience.

Who is the Helpline for?

Our Helpline gives vital support to people of any age who experience all forms of anxiety, including Panic Attacks, Phobias and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, and to family or friends supporting someone with anxiety.

If you're feeling anxious and would like to talk to someone about anxiety or would like to seek advice for a friend or family member - you can phone our free 24/7 Anxiety Helpline wherever you are in Aotearoa.

Is there a fee to call the Helpline?

The 0800 ANXIETY Helpline is confidential and free of charge.

Do I have be in Auckland to call?

Nope! The Helpline is a nation-wide phone service and you can call from anywhere in New Zealand.

Do I have to tell the Helpline who I am?

No. Your call is anonymous and the Helpline Team is trained to keep your call confidential. You do not need to share any personal information when you call.

What can I expect when I call the Helpline?

When you call the Helpline, you will be listened to and supported with empathy and unconditional acceptance.

Your Helpline Team member can take you through breathing and relaxation exercises and techniques that are effective in reducing feelings of anxiety and panic.

They can also share information about anxiety and practical strategies you can learn and apply when feeling stressed or anxious.

They will offer encouragement, education, and advice for anyone experiencing anxiety or supporting someone else living with anxiety.

Is the Helpline really available 24/7? What if I need anxiety support after-hours?

The Helpline is available 24/7, including overnight (midnight to 8am). Overnight support is reserved for callers experiencing severe anxiety.

Can I speak to a counsellor or therapist when I call the Helpline?

The 0800 ANXIETY Helpline is not a counselling service, however, we do offer counselling and therapy services (both online and in person) with Anxiety NZ. Find out more here.

Remember, you are not alone. Whether you're feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, we are here to help.

If you'd like to try something to help you relax in the moment, give this calming, guided visualisation technique a go.

Helpful Resources for Parents, Family and Friends

Parent Help – 0800 568 856 for parents/whānau seeking support, advice and practical strategies on all parenting concerns. Anonymous, non-judgemental and confidential.

Family Services Helpline – 0800 211 211 for help finding (and direct transfer to) community-based health and social support services in your area.

Skylight – 0800 299 100 for support through trauma, loss and grief; 9am–5pm weekdays.

Yellow Brick Road – For families and whānau supporting a loved one who has a mental illness. Auckland 0800 732 825. Find other regions' contact details here.

Emerging Minds - More learning about mental health and wellbeing for families and individuals.

Mental Health Tools & Resources