Health Information and Tips
Live Up is a service funded by Department of Health, Disability and Ageing. It has lots of tips and ideas about healthy aging, including staying physically active and social: https://www.liveup.org.au/ Health Direct is a government funded service that provides health information and advice. The article on mental health in older Australians has a symptom checkers: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/older-people-and-mental-health The Black Dog Institute has […]
Self-Care Planning
Planning for wellbeing is important. There are a range of tools you can use. We recommend this self-care planning tool from The Black Dog Institute
Mindfulness
There are many online resources that can assist in practicing mindfulness in everyday life. Mindfulness is a skill that can help develop relaxation, self-compassion, manage pain, sharpen your thinking, and increase your sense of vitality. There are lots of great resources available, see what works for you. Some people find the following helpful:
Talk to your GP
Your GP will assess your needs and may provide a referral to specialists like psychologists, called a Mental Health Care Plan. This can cover up to 10 individual/group sessions per calendar year with Medicare rebates (some practitioners may charge a gap fee).
Mental Health Support (ACT Only)
Canberra Health Services website has a list of mental health services available to residents of the ACT. Click “Visit website” to see the list.
Find a Psychologist
If you would like to talk with a psychologist there are a number of ways to find one:
Allied Health Services
Occupational therapists assist people in enhancing independence, safety, and quality of life and can assist with practical skills for accessing daily needs and the community. Occupational Therapy Australia has a Find an OT Service, or your GP may be able to assist.