Mental Health Support in Christchurch
Taking care of your mental health is important, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, struggling with day‑to‑day life, or supporting someone else, there are services in Christchurch that can help. Some supports are for urgent situations, while others focus on ongoing wellbeing, counselling, or community connection.
Urgent Mental Health Support
If you or someone else needs immediate psychiatric help, Crisis Resolution provides urgent mental health support through Hillmorton Hospital. Phone: 0800 920 092
For children and young people under 17, Child, Adolescent & Family Services (CAFS) offers specialist mental health support. Phone: 03 337 8740. This service is based at The Princess Margaret Hospital.
Non‑Crisis Mental Health Support
If you’re not in crisis but still need help, your GP practice is a good place to start, as they can refer you for free/low cost counselling sessions. Many clinics offer access to a Health Improvement Practitioner (HIP). HIPs can help with stress, anxiety, low mood, sleep issues, and general well-being.
Counselling Options
Counselling can help you work through challenges, build coping skills, and feel supported. Christchurch has several low‑cost or free options:
Catholic Social Services
The Women’s Centre (free, but often a waitlist)
Canterbury Men’s Centre
Petersgate Counselling Centre
These services offer a range of counsellors and approaches, and many can help even if cost is a barrier.
Community Support & Activities
For people living with mental illness, Step Ahead Trust provides daily activities, social groups, and events for adults aged 18–65. It’s a great way to build routine, connection, and confidence.
You can also access Mental Health Community Support Workers through organisations such as:
Comcare
Emerge Aotearoa
Older Persons Health (for people 65+)
Support workers can help with daily living, goal‑setting, wellbeing planning, and staying connected to your community.
Mental Health Helplines
If you need someone to talk to — day or night — these free helplines are available:
Need to Talk? call or text 1737
Lifeline: 0800 543 354
Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757
Anxiety NZ: 0800 269 4389
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865
These services are confidential and available 24/7.
How The Loft Can Support You
The Loft is here to help you navigate mental health challenges by connecting you with the right services for your situation. We can listen, guide you through your options, and link you with counselling, community supports, or wellbeing services. If you’re feeling unsure about where to start or what help is available, contact us and our team can walk alongside you as you take your next steps.