Mental Health
Mental health affects how we feel, function, behave and relate to others. Good mental health is of paramount importance to our overall health and wellbeing.
Practitioners are trained in conducting a confidential mental health assessment and management of your mental health needs.
We can provide Mental Health Plans and Mental Health Reviews, and referrals to psychologists, psychiatrists, and collaborative holistic management of Insomnia, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Premenstrual syndrome, and can facilitate referrals for diagnosis of Complex mental health issues, ADHD, Eating disorders and Gender Dysphoria etc.
If you are struggling with anxiety or depression asking for support is a brave and empowering first step towards prioritising your well-being and receiving the help you deserve. Everyone responds to events, circumstances, and periods of life differently, and your experience is valid is worthy of support. Mental and behavioural conditions result from a complex interplay of biological, social, psychological, environmental and economic factors, and can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, how they feel, think, behave and interact with other people.
At your initial consultation, your doctor will assess your mental health needs and discuss symptoms and challenges, practising active listening to deeply understand your experience. Then, goals will be developed collaboratively, and your doctor will provide strategies for treatment.
Depending on your specific case, treatment may initially involve self-directed strategies, or a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist. For women experiencing mental health challenges related to pregnancy or post-partum life, there are mental health professionals that specialise in this area, and your doctor can provide a referral.
Depression
Depression is a common mental health condition experienced by as much as 1 in 5 Australians and is characterised by persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. It can significantly impact a person’s daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being.
Clinical depression spans many forms, including:
- Major depressive disorder
- Persistent depressive disorder
- Postpartum depression
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Bipolar disorder
Depending on the patient and type of depression experienced, symptoms may include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleep)
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering details
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-blame
- Restlessness or irritability
- Digestive problems
- Body aches
Treatment
Various treatment options are available for patients with depression. Depending on numerous factors – including depression type, severity, symptoms, and patient health and goals – treatment options may include psychotherapy, antidepressant medications, lifestyle modifications, medical interventions, and professional support networks.
Mental Health Care Plans
In Australia, the General Practitioner (GP) Mental Health Care Plan is an important tool for individuals seeking mental health support. It is a structured approach that enables GPs to collaborate with their patients in developing a comprehensive plan to manage and address mental health concerns.
The plan may include a combination of interventions, such as counselling, therapy, medication, and referrals to other healthcare professionals or support services. The Mental Health Care Plan outlines ongoing care and access to Medicare rebates for eligible services, making mental health support more accessible and affordable for individuals in need.
Medicare rebates are available for 10 appointments addressing mental health concerns per year.
Patients under this plan are able to visit various healthcare professionals for mental health support, including the following:
- General practitioners
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists
- Social workers
- Mental health nurses
- Occupational therapists
Anxiety
Anxiety is characterised by feelings of fear, worry, and unease. It is a normal response to stress or potentially harmful situations, and it can motivate us to take action or avoid potential dangers. However, when anxiety becomes excessive, uncontrollable, and interferes with daily life, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.
There are numerous types of anxiety disorders, including:
- Generalised anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Specific phobias
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- While symptoms can vary among individuals and types of anxiety disorders, common symptoms include:
- Excessive worry and fear
- Racing thoughts and difficulty concentrating
- Overthinking and negative thinking patterns
- Restlessness, irritability, nervousness
- Lack of control over thoughts and emotions
- Rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath, chest tightness, and dizziness
- Sweating and trembling
- Muscle tension and gastrointestinal distress
- Depending on the type of anxiety you are experiencing, as well as its symptoms and severity and your personal goals, treatment options may include cognitive-behavioural therapy, medication, relaxation techniques, lifestyle modifications, and professional support networks.