GP Support and Wellbeing
Your health and wellbeing are important. General practice can be rewarding, but it can be challenging at times. If you're experiencing stress, burnout, health concerns or personal challenges, support is available.
The RACGP's GP Support Program, delivered by Sonder, provides a free and confidential 24/7 wellbeing support for RACGP members. This includes counselling services, wellbeing resources and self-help tools.
You can also access your local Doctors' Health Service for specialised support tailored to medical practitioners.
The GP Support Program (delivered by Sonder)
The RACGP provides access to a confidential counselling and support service through Sonder.
The GP Support Program is available to RACGP members and offers:
- Confidential counselling and mental health support
- 24/7 access via app, phone or live chat
- Support from qualified health professionals, including specialist referrals
- Help with work issues (stress, burnout, conflict and complaints) and personal challenges (family, financial stress, grief and relationships)
- Evidence-based self-help resources and wellbeing tools
- Safety features such as Check on Me and Track My Journey
- The service is independent of the RACGP. Information is confidential and not shared unless required by law or there is a serious safety risk.
To learn more about Sonder watch our Sonder Starter Video.
Accessing Sonder
Eligible members (based on membership type) can access support via the Sonder app, phone or live chat.
Three simple steps to get started:
- Download the Sonder app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Enter the email address you've provided with RACGP for membership and set up your account.
- Log in to access support anytime.
Follow our step-by-step guide to download the Sonder app and access the platform.
You can also call 1800 234 560 or use live chat through the Sonder platform for immediate support.
Support for Indigenous and First Nations members
Sonder provides 24/7 confidential medical, mental health and safety support that is culturally appropriate. Find out more here.
Other support for doctors
Doctors' Health Services
Doctors' Health Services operate independently and provide confidential support for medical practitioners. They understand the regulatory, professional and workplace considerations that may influence a doctor's health and wellbeing.
Services include:
- Confidential advice and early intervention support
- Referral to appropriate treating practitioners (e.g. psychologists and psychiatrists with expertise in doctor's health)
- Guidance where professional or regulatory considerations are relevant
Services are available across Australia:
Immediate support
If you require urgent assistance, contact 000.
For 24-hour crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au.
FAQs
Yes. Three free consultations have been made available to all RACGP members who are registered medical practitioners.
Yes, immediate family members can access the GP Support Program too. To refer an immediate family member to the service: open the Sonder app and click on 'More' in the bottom menu bar then select "Refer a family member".
Your psychologist will assess whether you require further assistance. They may either request additional free counselling sessions, or they may refer you to another specialist who can provide further support.
GP members can access three free sessions of counselling per presenting issue. If you are experiencing multiple concerns in your life, your psychologist may recommend additional free counselling sessions.
Information relating to participation in the EAP is strictly confidential. No information will be shared with anyone without informed, voluntary and written consent.
Yes, the same psychologist will conduct each session. If, for any reason, you would like to see a different psychologist just talk to a Sonder Team Member on 1800 234 560.
Generally, each session will last for about one hour.
Sonder provides access to qualified professionals and specialist support services. Members are matched with appropriately qualified practitioners and support providers based on their individual needs, ensuring they receive timely and appropriate care.