Mental Health Support Beyond School\u00a0by Hannah Littler (Patterson Rivers Secondary College’s Mental Health Practitioner) <\/p>\n\n\n\n
How? Where? What? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While there is lots of school-based wellbeing support and help with accessing referral pathways during your time at secondary school, we want to ensure our students know where they can access support for their mental health beyond the school walls. Knowing where to go and what to do\u00a0when you\u2019re experiencing a mental health struggle or a crisis can be\u00a0really challenging to navigate as an adult in the adult world.\u00a0Here’s some information that may help:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The first step is\u00a0acknowledging that something isn\u2019t quite right and some help from a professional would be good.\u00a0There are lots of services and supports available that can be accessed in a range of different ways depending on what your feel comfortable doing.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Speaking to someone about getting help can be hard but it\u2019s really important to always be honest and share the whole picture of what is happening for you so they can make the best assessment of your situation and give you the best advice and support available for your experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Seeing your doctor or GP can be a good place to start. A GP can create\u00a0a mental health care plan\u00a0that provides you with\u00a0access\u00a0to\u00a010\u00a0subsidised psychology sessions\u00a0in\u00a012 months.\u00a0Once these are used, book back in with your GP for further follow up.\u00a0You can ask your GP for a list of psychologists\u00a0they recommend.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Headspace is available until you turn 25. They have online and face to face support available. They have doctors, psychologists and nurses available for mental health as well as physical health needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If attending University or TAFE, they will have health services onsite to access support through. Visiting them in person or accessing the University or TAFE website will let you know the services available. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kids Helpline is available til age 25, its free online or over the phone counselling support 1800 55 1800. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reach Out provides practical digital self-help tools, forums and factual mental health information. https:\/\/au.reachout.com\/<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n