Mental Health and Wellbeing

Crisis Support

Everyone experiences stress and difficulties in their life; this is normal and most people handle the tough times becoming stronger from the difficulties.

But some people need help to deal with the stress and difficulties and crisis support can help at these times.

• Speak to your GP If you are experiencing stress and problems that you cannot deal with; or
• Speak to a crisis support services.

Talking to a General Practitioner (GP) is usually the first step towards getting help for your mental health and well being. There is a range of mental health services available, depending on your needs and your GP can discuss any concerns you have and give you advice on what to do next.

Your GP may develop a mental health treatment plan that allows you and your GP to talk about the mental health problems you are having and develop a plan of action. This action may include referral for counselling.

If you are having counselling it is recommended that you continue to see your GP for ongoing support and/or treatment and follow-up care.

The services delivered by Gippsland Medicare Local are:

Counselling Services:

Under funding from the commonwealth Gippsland Medicare Local directly employs a number of Psychologists providing a simple and cost effective avenue for improving the social and emotional well being of patients suffering from depression and anxiety. GPs refer patients to allied health professionals for short term; non-crisis counselling. These services can also be accessed by the community in case of an extreme weather even or other major crises

headspace:

headspace was established in 2006 with funding provided by the federal government. headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Foundation, helping young people ages 12 to 25 in the Latrobe City and Baw Baw Shire regions. Further information can be found by going to the headspace page.

Mental Health Nurse Service:

Through the Mental Health Nurse Service Gippsland Medicare Local employs Mental Health Nurses across Gippsland to assist in the provision of coordinated clinical care and treatment for people with severe mental health disorders. The Mental Health Nurses work closely with Psychiatrists and /or General Practitioners to assist with assessment and care planning of patients. They are also involved in the provision of ongoing care of patients.