Where do I start seeking help for mental health in Australia?

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This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you have health concerns, consult an AHPRA-registered telehealth doctor or request a medical certificate online if clinically appropriate. Please note: Hola Health does not currently offer Mental Health Care Plans.

Overview

Mental health, the foundation of a well-balanced life should be given utmost importance in our daily activity. In this fast-paced world, we undergo extreme stress in our professional or personal lives. Addiction to scrolling, social media, seeking constant peer validation, and comparing ourselves to their fabulous lifestyles became the new normal.   Navigating mental health can be overwhelming but understanding where to start will help. Whether you are experiencing workplace stress, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), post-natal depression, or any other mental health challenge, Australia has a plethora of services to help you on your path to recovery.  

Mental health landscape in Australia

Australia with its diverse population and geological landscape, often leads to the high prevalence of mental health issues. Some of the factors contributing to this are: 

• Australian location and geography: Many people in Australia live in rural or remote areas. They tend to undergo social isolation and limited access to mental support. With Indigenous populations facing mental health crises, It’s worth noting that urban areas also face significant challenges, including high stress and mental health issues related to the fast-paced lifestyle. 
• Natural disasters: Australia is prone to bushfires, floods, and other such natural disasters which leave a lasting impact on the mental health of people who experience them. It’s important to acknowledge the role of community support and disaster recovery services in mitigating these effects. 
• Substance abuse and the stigma surrounding mental health can make problems worse and make it harder for people to seek the help they need. 

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), 43% of Australians have experienced a mental health disorder at some point in their life. Current data indicates a rising trend in mental health challenges, partly due to increased awareness and reporting. Here are some more statistics on the mental health issues rampant in Australia: 

• The most common mental health in Australia in the past 12 months are anxiety disorders, mood disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse disorder.  
• 1 in 7 children or adolescents experienced a mental health disorder 

Can a virtual doctor’s appointment help in addressing mental health concerns?

Yes, a telehealth doctor’s appointment will help deal with the stigma of mental health faced by patients. Telehealth is paving the way for on-demand healthcare in Australia. Connecting with a doctor online at the click of a button seems to attract most Australians who want instant access to various health services such as online sick certificate, online doctor consultations, referrals online, pharmacy online, online prescription, and more. Telehealth provides 24/7 access to online doctors ensuring help is available when required.   Virtual mental health consultations can be booked easily from any reputed telehealth platform.

Urgent mental health helplines and support organisations in Australia

Mental health strategy in Australia is guided by the National Mental Health Strategy which was first released in 1992. This plan seeks to establish a national approach to mental health in Australia. It gives preference to regional planning, suicide prevention, improving the mental health of Indigenous tribes, reducing stigma through educating patients, and coordinated treatment for people with severe mental description.  Here’s a summary of each mental health organisation in Australia: 

• Mental health Australia: Focuses on reducing stigma and educating the public about mental depression. 
• WayAhead – Mental Health Association NSW: Promotes mental health education and a stigma-free society in NSW. 
• Sane Australia: Provides online support and resources for mental health awareness and assistance. Call 1800 18 7263.
• Beyond Blue: A well-known non-profit aiming to increase awareness and support for depression and anxiety. Call 1300 22 4636. 
• Head to Health: An Australian Government website providing digital mental health resources. Call 1800 595 212. 
• Black Dog Institute: Focuses on research and treatment for depression and other mental health disorders. 
• Headspace: Provides mental health services for young people aged 12-25, including support for substance abuse. 
• Lifeline: Offers 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14. 
• Open Minds: Offers personalised mental health services to help individuals achieve recovery. 
• Healing Foundation: Supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in healing from trauma. 
• Suicide Call Back Service — for anyone thinking about suicide, call 1300 659 467. 
• Qlife — For mental health issues related to their sexuality or gender identity (LGBTIQA+), call 1800 184 527. 

Seeking help for mental health in Australia is a courageous step. Whether you start by talking to someone you trust, visiting your GP, or reaching out to a support service, know that you’re not alone. Australia’s mental health system is designed to support you at every stage of your journey, offering a wide range of resources tailored to your needs. Remember, taking the first step is often the hardest, but it’s also the most important. Your mental health matters and help is available.