Elder abuse can take many different forms – it can be physical, emotional or financial. Taking the first step to get help to overcome an abusive situation you may find yourself in is by no means easy. To simplify the process, here are five organisations that are waiting to provide assistance.
When you’re suffering elder abuse
As explained by the Elder Abuse Prevention Unit, Elder abuse is: “a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person”.
If you believe you, or someone you know, may be suffering from elder abuse, you can call the Elder Abuse Prevention Unit to receive advice or report an incident. The unit is located in Queensland, so locals can call the helpline on 1300 651 192. If you live interstate then you can call (07) 3867 2525 and request a call back, in order to keep the cost of the call to a minimum, or you can visit EAPU.com.au for more information.
When you’re feeling down
If you’re feeling anxious, depressed, just a bit lost and lonely, or are experiencing a personal crisis, you can call Lifeline to talk to someone who can listen and help you get the assistance you need. You can call 24 hours per day, 365 days of the year, on 13 11 14, or visit Lifeline.org.au
When you’re sick or injured
If you are sick or injured and need advice, such as whether or not you need to visit a doctor, then you can call the HealthDirect Australia helpline on 1800 022 222 to speak to a registered nurse, 24 hours per day, seven days a week, or visit Healthdirect.gov.au
When you’re a man having relationship or family issues
MensLine Australia is a helpline and information service for men experiencing relationship problems. It offers advice for dealing with issues in a practical and effective way. You might consider calling MensLine if you are working through a relationship problem, aren’t happy with the way you are treating your loved ones but don’t know how to change your behaviour or are experiencing domestic abuse (which 25 per cent of Australian men will experience in their lifetime, so you’re certainly not alone). You can call 1300 78 99 78 any time of the day or night, seven days per week, or visit Mensline.org.au
When you’re having trouble with domestic violence
The National Sexual Assault, Family and Domestic Violence Counselling Line offers a 24-hour service for those who may be experiencing, or know someone who is experiencing, domestic violence. It is important to remember that violence is not always physical – controlling a partner’s movements, calling them names or making them feel worthless are all acts of domestic violence. You can call the 24-hour counselling service on 1800 RESPECT, or 1800 737 732, or visit 1800respect.org.au
