Self-care and mental health resources


Mental health resources for GPs

General practice is a rewarding and fulfilling career contributing to improving the lives of many people across Australia. However, by its very nature, this work can be challenging and stressful.

The RACGP recognises this can contribute to high rates of depression, anxiety and other mental health problems among doctors. However, multiple barriers exist preventing medical professionals accessing mental health services.

The RACGP encourages all GPs to take care of their own physical, mental, emotional and social health and seek support when required. Resources and services are available, specifically developed for general practitioners and health professionals, relating to self-care and mental health wellbeing.

The RACGP has developed the resource ‘Self-care and mental health resources for general practitioners’ to increase members awareness of available supports.

A summary of counselling and support resources follows.

Where to get help

RACGP GP Support Program

The RACGP GP Support Program offers free, confidential specialist advice to help cope with professional and personal stressors impacting areas such as mental health and wellbeing, work performance and personal relationships. The service is available to all RACGP members who are registered medical practitioners at locations across Australia, including in regional and remote areas. Clinicians are Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) registered psychologists and Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) registered social workers with at least three years’ clinical experience. This service is delivered by LifeWorks. Appointments for face-to-face or telephone counselling during business hours can be made by calling 1300 361 008 (office hours 8.30 am – 6.00 pm, Monday to Friday) and via the same number for 24-hour/7-day-a-week crisis counselling.

DRS4DRS

DRS4DRS is an independent program providing confidential support and resources to doctors and medical students across Australia. The DRS4DRS website provides coordinated access to mental health and wellbeing resources, training on becoming a doctor for doctors, community news and navigation to each state/territory helpline and referral services. Confidential phone advice is available 24/7 for any doctor or medical student in Australia.

State/Territory

Telephone

Australian Capital Territory

1300 374 377

New South Wales

02 9437 6552

Northern Territory

08 8366 0250

Queensland

07 3833 4352

South Australia

08 8366 0250

Tasmania

1300 374 377

Victoria

1300 330 543

Western Australia

08 9321 3098

CRANAplus Mental Health and Wellbeing Services

CRANAplus Mental Health and Wellbeing Services include the Bush Support Line, wellbeing workshops, resources and education. The Bush Support Line provides a free and confidential 24-hour/7-day-a-week on demand telephone counselling service for rural and remote health workers. This culturally safe service is staffed by psychologists with a minimum of five years clinical experience and all have experience in the rural and remote sector. CRANAplus membership is not required to access the service. Phone 1800 805 391.

Lifeline

Lifeline provides all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. Phone 13 11 14.

beyondblue

beyondblue’s support service is available 24 hours /7 days a week by phoning 1300 22 4636 or via webchat 3.00 pm – 12.00 am/7 days a week.

Shift app– support for GPs in training

The RACGP is supporting the trial of Shift, a new app by the Black Dog Institute. Developed with doctors in training and using the latest evidence, Shift is quick, confidential and accessible 24/7. It’s designed to build skills in mental health and wellbeing to help registrars navigate some of the unique challenges that early career doctors face.  Join the trial now
 

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