We’re currently witnessing a significant shift in mental health care. Perceptions are evolving, and understanding is deepening. People are increasingly recognising the vital importance of mental health, along with the urgent need for accessible, high-quality professionals to provide the care and support required.
And the good news is that it doesn’t have to be hard.
So let’s take a closer look at accessing mental health support services in Mandurah, and how you can find the right professional for your needs.
Key Australian mental health statistics
If we look at the key Australian mental health statistics from BeyondBlue and Australian Institute of Health & Welfare, the reality is eye-opening.
- 42.9% of Australians have experienced a mental health condition at some point in their lives.
- One in five Australians have experienced a mental health condition in the past 12 months.
- Women appear to experience higher rates of mental health conditions (24.6%) than men (18.3%).
- The most common mental health conditions are anxiety disorders (around 17% of the population) and affective disorders (around 8% of the population).
- More people are seeking mental health services than ever. Between 2020 and 2022, 3.4 million people—17.4% of Australians—saw a mental health professional.
- In 2021-22 alone, 2.8 million Australians accessed Medicare-subsidised mental health-related services.
While this may paint a stark picture of mental health conditions in Australia, let’s look at the flip side: it means that these conditions are being reported, studied, and understood. Today, there’s more support available than ever.
Why is good mental health important?
Just like our physical health, positive mental health is critical for our day-to-day functioning. It supports us in connecting with those around us and engaging in daily activities.
Good mental health is also linked to better physical health—which, in turn, helps promote better mental health. So by working on one, it helps to encourage the other. But what is positive mental health?
It’s not just about being happy, or looking on the bright side of things. It’s how you deal with challenges.
It’s how you handle the daily pressures that come your way, and put steps in place to work through them. It’s how you manage your emotions—whether they’re happy, angry, or sad—and have the capacity to keep them under control.
How to improve mental health
How to take care of your mental health looks different for everyone, but there are some key practices that professionals agree can help.
Look after your physical health
Physical health is intrinsically linked with mental health. So things like getting good quality sleep, moving your body and being active, and even including relaxation exercises into your daily routine, can do wonders.
Set goals and make plans
Having something to work towards helps to create motivation and meaning. It helps you connect your actions with an outcome , and see past any problems that might be happening in the moment.
Stay connected
Engaging in positive relationships is a key driver towards positive mental health. Engaging with your family and friends, and actively participating in your chosen communities can help you to feel connected and supported.
How to get help for your mental health
If you’re wondering who to talk to about mental health, the first step is to book a consultation with your GP. They will chat with you, getting to understand your needs and how you’re feeling. They can then refer you to a mental health professional, whether it’s a counselor, a psychiatrist, or a psychologist.
Talking to your doctor about mental health
Discussing your mental health with your GP is the first step in getting help. The most important thing to remember is that they’re there to help you.
So it’s important to be honest and open. Tell them exactly how you’re feeling, and talk through any concerns you might have. Discuss your symptoms: the thoughts you’re having, how it feels, and how they make you behave.
Your GP might ask questions that make you uncomfortable. They might discuss physical health, medication, lifestyle, cultural background, or family history—but it’s how they’ll get you the best support for your situation.
They’ll then provide you with a mental health treatment plan that covers your health care goals, and refers you to the right mental health specialist.
Finding a mental health professional in Mandurah
Brecken Health Mandurah is here to help you get the support you need to improve your mental health.
Get in touch with us to speak with our team, and book an appointment with one of our mental health professionals. Together, we can help you take the first step on your mental health journey.