Mental health
Mental Health
A calm place to start a mental health conversation, with GP support for anxiety, mood, stress, sleep, care planning and appropriate referrals.
What patients usually book for
Anxiety, mood or stress
Support for anxiety, low mood, overwhelm, grief, work stress, relationship stress or emotional changes.
Sleep and coping
Sleep problems, fatigue, burnout, panic symptoms and practical coping strategies.
Care planning and referral
Mental health care plans, review appointments and referral discussions where clinically appropriate.
Preparing for your appointment
What to bring
- A list of current medicines and supplements.
- Any previous mental health plan, psychology letters or hospital documents if available.
- A short note about what has changed, what helps, and what makes things worse.
- A support person if you would like one present.
When to book a longer appointment
Please book a longer appointment for mental health. These conversations need time for shared decision-making, safety planning where needed, care planning and follow-up.
Understanding Mental Health Care Plans and Reviews
Many people are surprised to learn that a Mental Health Care Plan is much more than a referral to a psychologist.
As Specialist General Practitioners, GPs are responsible for assessing your mental health, determining whether a Mental Health Care Plan is appropriate, identifying any risks or concerns, discussing treatment options, and coordinating your ongoing care. This requires medical expertise, clinical judgement, and a thorough understanding of both your mental and physical health.
Under Medicare requirements, Mental Health Care Plans and subsequent reviews are not administrative tasks or simple referral letters. Reviews help ensure that treatment remains appropriate, effective and safe.
Mental health care is often complex and highly individual. While some appointments may seem straightforward, the responsibility for assessment, documentation, treatment planning and ongoing care remains significant.
What your GP reviews
During these appointments, your GP assesses your progress, reviews symptoms, evaluates ongoing needs, considers any changes in diagnosis or circumstances, and determines whether you remain eligible for Medicare-supported psychological treatment.
Looking at the whole picture
Reviews also provide an opportunity to identify other factors affecting your wellbeing, including physical health conditions, medications, sleep, stress, relationships, work pressures, substance use and other life circumstances.
Clinical accountability
GPs are professionally accountable to Medicare and the Medical Board of Australia. We are required to maintain accurate clinical records, undertake appropriate assessments, and ensure referrals and treatment recommendations meet professional and regulatory standards.
What happens after the appointment
Follow-up and referrals
Your GP may suggest follow-up, self-management steps, medication review, a mental health care plan, psychology referral or other appropriate referrals depending on your needs.
Related team members
Mental health appointments can start with the GP team. Psychology appointments may be available through Book Now or reception when clinically appropriate.
Related services
Common questions
Should I book a long appointment for mental health?
Yes. A longer appointment gives the GP time to understand what is happening and plan safe next steps.
Can the GP refer me to a psychologist?
Where clinically appropriate, your GP can discuss referral options, including psychology.
What if I need help urgently?
If life is in danger, call 000. For crisis support, Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14.
This information is general and does not replace medical advice. For appointment availability, fees, appointment types or urgent concerns, confirm with reception.