There are many different types of mental health conditions and disorders, and a wide range of symptoms within each of them. Mental ill-health can happen to anyone, and it can strongly affect a person’s behavior, physical health, relationships, ability to do work, and even their feelings and perceptions of the world.

All of us will experience at least one significant and challenging experience within our lifetime, such as childhood or adult trauma, the loss of a significant other, relationship or family breakdown, serious acute or chronic illness, or occupational dissatisfaction or loss. While most of the time we can manage such experiences independently or with the help of family and friends, some events require professional support to cope through the experience, and adjust to life after the event.

With the right support, things can improve. If you feel you need support, there are many options available. Talking to people you trust is the first step, as is seeking professional support. Focusing on self-care and finding peers who have gone through something similar are a few other options.

At Flagstone Family practice all our GPs have experience in diagnosing and supporting people who present us with various mental health issues. We are trained to take a detailed mental health history, diagnose illness, prescribe medications when needed, and refer to specialists if required.

We as GPs act as a gateway to other specialists. We can create a Mental Health Treatment Plan, which helps us to work out what services are needed and decide on the best treatment options. The Mental Health Treatment Plan explains the support and responsibilities of each of the health care professionals involved – like GP, Psychologist. Psychiatrist, Mental health nurse, Social worker, etc. Through the Mental Health Treatment Plan, in a calendar year (the time between January and December), patients are eligible to claim a Medicare rebate for up to 10 sessions with a psychologist. The 10 sessions are referred to in two sets – the first block of treatment is for six sessions. After six sessions with your psychologist, you will need to complete a progress review with your GP, and then a subsequent referral is made for the second block of treatment consisting of the final four sessions.

Psychological support has been found to be very beneficial for people experiencing mild, moderate or severe mental health issues, challenging life experiences and/or relationship difficulties.

We have an in-house psychologist – Sarah Broome, who is currently working every Thursday and Saturday. 

Please make an appointment with the GP if you are suffering with any mental illness. We are all are trained in Flagstone family Practice to manage most common mental health issues. If needed we can involve other health practitioners like psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, occupational therapist etc.

For more information about Mental health and Addiction problems please check our Your health page in this website.