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Living and working in rural Australia can be a rewarding and challenging way of life. However, for many reasons it can be difficult to get help and support for mental health issues. Recognising when help and support is needed, either for yourself or for someone else, is very important. Your mental health is an important part of your overall health and wellbeing. You need good mental health to help you get through life’s challenges, to have healthy relationships with others and to enjoy life. If you live outside a major city, it can be hard to find help. You may have to be self-sufficient to live

The cost of mental health services varies enormously, depending on where you live and which service you are receiving. If you see a doctor (GP or psychiatrist), Medicare covers some or all of that cost. If you are in a public hospital, care is free. If you are in a private hospital, you will be charged. If you have private health insurance, that will cover some of the costs. If you see a community mental health service, that is free. If you receive care or support from a non-government organisation (NGO), that is usually free. The Australian Government’s Better Access initiative allows people to see mental health professionals

What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan? A Mental Health Treatment Plan (previously known as a ‘mental health care plan’) is a plan for people with a mental health disorder. If you have mental health issues, your doctor can write a plan for you. The plan identifies what type of health care you need and spells out what you and your doctor have agreed you are aiming to achieve. It may also refer you to local mental health services. Who is eligible for a Mental Health Treatment Plan? A Mental Health Treatment Plan is available to you if you have

What are the types of mental health professionals Many types of health professionals work in mental health care, including: your doctor – general practitioners can diagnose and treat mental health disorders, as well as advise you and refer you to other mental health professionals psychiatrists – these medical doctors have done specialised training in mental health – they can diagnose and treat mental illness, both with psychotherapy (talking therapies) and/or medication mental health nurses – nurses with a specialist qualification in mental health; they help people work towards recovery from mental health issues psychologists – provide treatment of mental health problems with psychotherapy;

There are several organisations that provide support and education for people with mental illness and their families and carers throughout Australia. Some of the main groups are listed below. Beyond Blue aims to increase awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce stigma. Call 1300 22 4636, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or email. Blue Knot Foundation Helpline is the National Centre of Excellence for Complex Trauma. It provides support, education and resources for the families and communities of adult survivors of childhood trauma and abuse. Call 1300 657 380, Monday – Sunday between 9am – 5pm AEST or via email [email protected]. Butterfly Foundation’s National Helpline is a free, confidential

If you have a mental health condition that needs treatment, you might be able to get help with payment through a government program. If you qualify for the Better Access initiative, you will be able to receive a Medicare rebate for selected mental health services. Your GP can also refer you to psychological services through the local Primary Health Networks. These have funding to provide services to populations in their area deemed to be at high risk or that have poor access to mental health support. Ask your GP if you can access these services. Who can use the Better Access program? You

Many health professionals provide mental health services. Your doctor (GP) is often a good place to start for most mental health conditions. Doctors can provide treatment or refer you to other services for mental health. It is important to talk about your mental health, but it can be difficult. Here are some tips for how to start a conversation with a doctor about your mental health. Search for a doctor in your location. What questions do I ask when choosing a GP? If you don’t have a regular doctor already, you can find one by speaking to your local pharmacist and look at

There are many different mental health services in Australia. The Federal, state and territory governments, and the private sector, provide these services. They can be face-to-face, online or by telephone. Understanding how they work and fit together can be daunting. Here is a summary of the different types of mental health services and how to access them. Emergency mental health care A mental health crisis, when someone may hurt themselves or others, is an emergency. If you or someone you care for is in immediate danger call triple zero (000) or go to your nearest emergency department.   Mental health telephone triage services