Whether you've been feeling low for a while, struggling with stress or anxiety, or simply not feeling like yourself, you don't need to have it all worked out before you book. Here's what to expect from GP mental health support at Kilmore Village Medical.
How your GP can support your mental health
Your GP is a first point of contact for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, grief and sleep difficulties. Talking with your GP about these things is a confidential, everyday part of general practice.
Depending on what you need, your GP may:
- Listen and assess: giving you space to explain what's been happening
- Discuss options: from lifestyle changes to therapy or, where appropriate, medication
- Prepare a mental health treatment plan: to help you access Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions
- Refer you on: to a psychologist or another mental health professional
- Follow up: checking in on how you're going over time
There's no concern too big or too small to bring to your GP. If it's affecting your wellbeing, it's worth talking about.
What is a mental health treatment plan?
A mental health treatment plan is a plan your GP prepares with you if you're dealing with a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression. It's part of the Australian Government's Better Access initiative, which helps people get Medicare-subsidised mental health care.
The plan can give you access to rebated sessions with a psychologist, social worker or occupational therapist. It sets out your goals, the support you need and who will provide it.
How many psychology sessions does Medicare cover?
Under Better Access, a mental health treatment plan gives you access to Medicare rebates for a set number of individual sessions each calendar year. A few things worth knowing:
- Your GP reviews your progress before you continue with further sessions
- Rebates reduce the cost of each session, though your psychologist may charge a gap fee
- Sessions can be in person or, in many cases, by telehealth
Your psychologist's fees can vary, so it's worth asking about any gap when you book with them.
What to expect at a GP mental health appointment
A mental health appointment is a longer consultation, so you have time to talk properly. Your GP will usually:
- Ask how you've been feeling and what's prompted you to come in
- Explore your history, including sleep, stress, relationships and physical health
- Talk through your options together, at a pace that suits you
- Agree on next steps, which may include a treatment plan or referral
You're in control of what you share and how quickly you want to move.
When to seek help
It's worth booking an appointment if:
- Low mood, anxiety or stress has lasted more than a couple of weeks
- Your sleep, appetite, work or relationships are being affected
- You're relying on alcohol or other substances to cope
- You just don't feel like yourself and aren't sure why
If you or someone you know needs support right now, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36, at any time. In an emergency, call 000.
Taking the first step
Reaching out takes courage, and your GP is a confidential place to begin. You don't have to work through things on your own. Book online or call (03) 4714 8400.
The information in this article is general in nature and isn't a substitute for personalised medical advice. If you're concerned about your health, book an appointment with your GP at Kilmore Village Medical or call (03) 4714 8400.