OSHCstudents-In this article, we’ll run you through some simple steps that you can take to get help for mental health in Australia.
Speak to your doctor
Speaking to your doctor or GP is an important first step when seeking help for mental health in Australia. Your local GP is trained to identify and treat mental health problems and can assist with referrals for you to see specialist services. Your doctor can also help you to set up a Mental Health Plan to ensure you’re getting access to the right support.
Call Lifeline for urgent help
If you are struggling with your mental health and need someone to talk to immediately, you can call Lifeline for urgent help on 13 11 14. Lifeline is a national support charity that provides support and suicide prevention services to Australians in need. They operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and their services are free and confidential.
Speak to friends and family
If you’re feeling down, alone, or just need someone to speak to – your friends and family are a great support network who can offer practical support and assistance. Chances are someone that you know has felt like they needed help in the past and may be able to provide you with help finding organizations and services available to help you with your mental health.
Speak to a mental health professional
It’s important to speak to a mental health professional if you’re experiencing any symptoms of mental illness.
Mental health has a significant impact on a person’s life and can lead to problems with work, relationships, and day-to-day activities.
A mental health professional can provide you with support, and guidance, and can help you to effectively manage your symptoms. Trained professionals can also offer advice on how to cope with stress and anxiety and can provide information on the treatment options that are available to you.
Mental health professionals who can help include psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, and social workers. These health professionals can provide you with support and advice and can help you manage your symptoms. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, social anxiety, or feelings of isolation and loneliness, there is help out there. Don’t suffer alone. You wouldn’t walk home on a broken leg, similarly, your mental health needs to be taken seriously. You’re never alone, there is always help available.
If you need help with your mental health, the first step is to speak to your GP. Your GP can assess your symptoms and provide you with guidance on the best course of treatment and the referrals that are required to see mental health specialists who are equipped to help you with what you are experiencing.
Remember, mental health problems are not a sign of weakness. Almost half of all Australian adults report feeling like they need help with mental health at some point in their life – so you’re far from alone. If you feel like you need some help, refer to the above steps and take the first steps toward a healthier, brighter future.
If you are international students, foreigners arriving to Australia, or Australian citizens traveling abroad looking for OSHC, OVHC, travel insurance, please contact OSHCstudents Team at email: info@oshcstudents.com and our partners for further information and assistance.
OSHCstudents (Source: Selectability.com)
