Understanding Mental Health: A Guide for Patients in Australia and how a GP may be able to assist.
If you need urgent support, you can contact:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7)
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Mental health is an essential part of overall wellbeing, just as important as physical health. Yet many people still feel uncertain, embarrassed, or reluctant to seek help when they are struggling emotionally or psychologically.
This article aims to explain what mental health means, common mental health conditions, when to seek help, and how General Practitioners (GPs) like the ones at CBD Doctors Melbourne can support patients in Australia.
What Is Mental Health?
Mental health refers to how we think, feel, and behave in daily life. It influences how we handle stress, relate to others, make decisions, and cope with challenges.
Good mental health does not mean never feeling sad, anxious, or stressed; rather, it means having the ability to manage these feelings effectively and seek help when needed.
Mental health exists on a spectrum. People may experience periods of good mental health, mild distress, or more serious mental health conditions at different stages of their lives.
Common Mental Health Conditions in Australia
Mental health conditions are widespread in Australia. Some of the most common include:
- Anxiety Disorders – Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that interferes with daily life. Symptoms may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbance, and physical symptoms such as palpitations or breathlessness.
- Depression – Depression is more than feeling sad; it is a persistent low mood that affects energy, motivation, sleep, appetite, and enjoyment of life. People with depression may feel hopeless, withdrawn, or overwhelmed
- Stress and Burnout- Chronic stress can result from work pressures, family responsibilities, financial difficulties, or health issues. If unmanaged, it can lead to burnout, anxiety, or depression.
- Trauma-Related Conditions- Experiencing a traumatic event can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), characterised by flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness.
When Should You See Your GP?
You should consider booking an appointment with your GP if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Persistent sadness or anxiety lasting more than two weeks
- Difficulty sleeping most nights
- Loss of interest in activities you previously enjoyed
- Frequent panic attacks
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Difficulty functioning at work, school, or in relationships
The GPs at CBD Doctors Melbourne provide confidential, non-judgmental first point of contact for mental health concerns. Any of the GP at CBD Doctors Melbourne can assist if you need to speak to someone about your mental health concerns. Simply book via our website with your preferred doctor and then select mental health consultation as the reason for seeing the doctor.
How Can a GP at CBD Doctors Melbourne Help with Mental Health?
In Australia, your GP plays a central role in mental health care. Support may include:
- Assessing your symptoms and overall wellbeing
- Providing initial counselling and guidance
- Developing a Mental Health Treatment Plan. You will need to register CBD Doctors Melbourne as your primary clinic on MyMedicare to receive these benefits.
- Referring you to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or other allied health professionals
- Prescribing medication when appropriate
- Monitoring your progress over time
A Mental Health Treatment Plan can allow you to access Medicare-subsidised sessions with a psychologist or other mental health professionals. If don’t have Medicare your private insurance may cover a portion of the appointment depending on your level of cover – this can sometimes include referrals to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or other allied health professionals.
Treatment Options
Mental health treatment is individualised and may include:
- Psychological Therapy – Common approaches include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and trauma-focused therapy. These aim to help you understand and manage your thoughts, and emotions.
- Medication – In some cases, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, or other psychiatric medications may be recommended. Your GP will discuss benefits, side effects, and monitoring.
- Lifestyle Strategies- Regular exercise, adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and social connection all play important roles in mental wellbeing.
Reducing Stigma Around Mental Health
Mental health conditions are medical conditions, not personal weaknesses. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not failure. Talking openly about mental health helps reduce stigma and encourages more people to access care early.
Support Services in Australia
If you need urgent support, you can contact:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7)
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Your mental health matters. If you are struggling, you do not have to face it alone. Your GP is here to listen, assess, and guide you toward the right support. Early intervention can make a significant difference in recovery and quality of life.
If you would like, I can tailor this article specifically to your practice, include your clinic name, location, or local referral pathways, or adjust it for a more clinical or more conversational tone.
Useful links:
Meet your doctors: https://www.cbddoctorsmelbourne.com.au/meet-our-team/
How to book – booking with just is simple: https://www.cbddoctorsmelbourne.com.au/booking-with-us/
Beyond Blue – https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
Lifeline – https://www.lifeline.org.au/
Sane – https://www.sane.org/
Emergency assistance – https://www.triplezero.gov.au/
Kidshelpline – https://kidshelpline.com.au/
Written by Dr Jelena Radosavljevic.