Managing Your Mental Health: When and How to Reach Out
Feeling low, anxious or overwhelmed is common, and support is available. Here's how a GP visit for mental health actually works.
It's normal to feel stressed, anxious or low from time to time, but when those feelings start affecting your sleep, work or relationships, it's worth talking to someone. A visit to your GP is often the easiest first step.
During a mental health consultation, your doctor will ask about how you've been feeling, what's been going on in your life, and what kind of support might help. Depending on your situation, this could mean a referral to a psychologist under a Mental Health Treatment Plan, a conversation about medication, or simply a regular check-in appointment.
You don't need a diagnosis or a crisis to book this kind of appointment — many patients come in simply because something doesn't feel right. Longer appointments are available if you'd like more time to talk; just let reception know when you book.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or, in an emergency, 000.
