ReachOut PeerChatFree, anonymous, online support

Aged 16-25 in Australia? Chat for free with a trained peer worker about anything that’s worrying you - big or small.

What's PeerChat?

ReachOut

PeerChat is a free, anonymous, 1:1 online chat with a trained peer worker.

How can it help me?

ReachOut

We're here to listen and support you with what you're going through.

What can I talk about?

You can talk about anything. Small worries to big issues - we’re here to listen.

  • Advice on finding the right help and support
  • Anxiety, depression and mental wellbeing
  • Alcohol or other substance use
  • Romantic relationships
  • School, study and work stress
  • Cultural identity
  • Friends and family
  • Gender and sexuality
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Our peer workers can’t offer crisis support. If you need to talk to someone now, you can find 24/7 services on our Urgent Help page. If you or someone you are with is in immediate danger call 000.

Who will I be chatting with?

You’ll be chatting with a ReachOut peer worker. Peer workers have been trained to use their lived experiences to understand and support other young people. Peer workers are there to listen to you, explore your situation, and help you come up with ways to manage what you’re going through. You lead the conversation, and you can end the conversation at any time. Chats with peer workers are confidential.

Have Questions?

Not sure if PeerChat is for you? Here’s some frequently asked questions about the service.

PeerChat is a one-on-one, text-based service between you and a ReachOut peer worker. It’s a safe and secure space to talk about what’s going on for you. 

PeerChat is a safe, friendly and inclusive space for young people. We support people of all genders, First Nations young people, the LGBTQIA+ community, and neurodivergent and culturally and linguistically diverse young people.

PeerChat is a service for 16–25 year-olds living, studying or working in Australia. You don’t need a referral from a health-care professional or to have been diagnosed with a mental health issue to use PeerChat.

Chat sessions are 45 minutes, starting from when you’re connected to a peer worker. You can end the chat earlier if you want.

ReachOut's peer workers are trained to support young people to feel heard and understood and to gain clarity around what you’re dealing with. This includes training in mental health first aid. We use what we’ve learnt from our own experiences to hear what you’re saying and support you when you need help.

Peer workers aren’t clinical professionals, like psychologists or psychiatrists, so we aren’t here to diagnose you or to provide long-term support.

Mon–Thurs 3pm–8pm, Fri 1pm–5pm AEST