Uniting Communities is delivering a new phone support line for people struggling with the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Eastern Europe.

An initiative of the State Government, the Eastern European Conflict Mental Health Support Line supports South Australians dealing with increased anxiety and mental health concerns associated with the unfolding Ukrainian and Russian conflict. It operates from 8am to 8pm every day.

The unfolding conflict in Eastern Europe is having a significant impact on our community and the world. We understand the conflict may have a range of impacts on people's mental health and wellbeing.

The support line brings together the skills and experience of mental health and counselling staff at Uniting Communities. They provide counselling over the phone and referrals to a range of services, if required.

“Fear for the safety of family and loved ones living in Ukraine, or uncertainty about the future of their country, and its culture is having an impact on the Ukrainian South Australian community,” said Abram Cunneen, Lifeline Adelaide Service Manager.

“The ongoing uncertainty about the safety of the country, the surrounding region, and indeed the world, may be causing feelings of helplessness, hopelessness and distress.”

Our team of empathic, non-judgemental, and trauma-informed counsellors aim to create a sense of safety, trust, and stability for help-seekers. They provide a space for people to feel heard, exploring coping strategies and ways the caller can get the help they need.

The Eastern European Conflict Mental Health Support Line is available on 1800 332 433 (8am to 8pm, 7 days) to provide support to navigate these difficult times. The option to receive a call back is also possible and the team can provide ongoing support with follow up calls.

The confidential service can be accessed anonymously by anyone in SA.

This service, along with Uniting Communities' Lifeline Crisis Support Service, and our COVID Mental Health Support Line, is providing our community with the mental health support they may need in these challenging times.