At Australind Medical Centre and Eaton Medical Centre we treat Mental Health with genuine compassion and care. Many of our doctors have significant interest and experience in depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. We recognise the importance of a safe environment and respect privacy and confidentiality. We endeavour to help guide and support people through difficult times with a careful assessment and treatment plan. Treatment strategies include self-help, medication and psychological therapy.
Self-Help
Self-help is a major weapon in the treatment of mental illnesses. Your doctor will help guide you in what you can do yourself which may include physical exercise, relaxation exercises, problem solving, sleep hygiene, and a healthy lifestyle.
Recommended websites for self-care:
Depression and bipolar disorder: blackdoginstitute.org.au
Anxiety disorders: crufad.org
Perinatal and general mental health: beyondblue.org.au
General psychiatric problems: psychcentral.org
General problems and eating disorders: cci.health.wa.gov.au
Medication
Medications for mental health conditions are often appropriate and helpful. Getting the most out of medication requires skill and experience from the prescribing doctor. Sometimes the first medication works but often juggling of medications and dosages is required. Sometimes combinations of medications are needed. Your doctor will be able to make appropriate recommendations.
Psychotherapy
This is talking-based (non-medication) therapy conducted between a patient and a qualified therapist. The therapist may be a psychologist, doctor or other registered allied-health professional. It is an open communication process that many patients find enjoyable and rewarding, especially in the long-term. A GP Mental Health Treatment Plan offers patients a Medicare rebate which subsidises up to 10 sessions of therapy per year.
Focussed Psychological Strategies
“Focussed psychological strategies are specific mental health care management strategies, derived from evidence based psychological therapies that have been shown to integrate the best research evidence of clinical effectiveness with general practice clinical expertise.” Source: Australian Government – The Department of Health
Focussed Psychological Strategies (FPS) are non-medication mental health strategies including a broad range of techniques and therapies, such as:
- Mental health education
- Cognitive-behavioural therapy (thinking-acting techniques)
- Relaxation strategies
- Problem solving skills
- Anger management
- Social skills training
- Stress management skills
- Parent management training
FPS if effective for many mental and physical health problems such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship conflict, chronic pain, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and more.
Patients with eligible health conditions qualify for Medicare funding for FPS through a Mental Health Care Plan. To find out more talk to your G.P.