A dramatic advertising campaign aims to connect people concerned about mental illness with the help they need.

Launched on 30 October 2006 and ran through mid-2007, the campaign used a suite of advertising media to encourage people concerned about mental illness to get the information, advice and support they need by contacting SANE’s national Freecall Helpline, 1800 18 SANE (7263).

As well as outdoor advertising, a radio ad was played regularly on the top-rating FM station in every capital city, and full-page colour ads appeared in popular magazines such as New Idea, Who Weekly, That’s Life and Notebook.

‘The effects of mental illness are often distressing and confusing – not only for the person directly affected, but for family and friends as well,’ says Barbara Hocking, Executive Director of SANE Australia. ‘By making a free call to the SANE Helpline from anywhere in Australia, they will receive accurate, up-to-date information about symptoms and treatments, advice, and referral to support services in their local area. A free Infopack can also be sent out on request.’

SANE is grateful to CommotionKWP and the Media Kitchen for their generous support of this campaign.

The SANE Helpline is open 24-hours, with Helpline Advisors available 9-5 EST weekdays, and requests for a free Infopack taken round-the-clock. The service is also available via the SANE website or by emailing