Recognising the Signs: When to Seek Support
Living in Queanbeyan means being part of a close-knit community, and at Googong Family Practice, we take pride in supporting our neighbours with personalised, high-quality care. Mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, and we’re here to ensure that residents of Queanbeyan and surrounding areas have access to professional, compassionate help when they need it most. Whether you’re managing stress, coping with anxiety, or seeking guidance for long-term mental wellness, the experienced consulting doctors at Googong Family Practice are here to assist you every step of the way.
Why Choose Googong Family Practice?
Mental health concerns can sometimes be difficult to spot, particularly when symptoms develop gradually. If you’ve been feeling persistently overwhelmed, withdrawn, or emotionally fatigued, it may be time to reach out for professional help. Some common signs to watch for include:
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Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
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Irritability or mood swings
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Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
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Feelings of hopelessness or disconnection
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Loss of interest in daily activities
These symptoms may not always point to a diagnosable condition, but they do indicate that your emotional well-being deserves attention. The earlier you access care, the easier it becomes to manage or prevent more complex challenges.
Understanding the Role of a Mental Health Care Plan
A mental health care plan is more than just a document—it’s a personalised strategy developed between you and your consulting doctor to provide structured and ongoing support. It outlines your specific goals, the type of therapy or interventions recommended, and any referrals needed, such as to a mental health specialist.
Having a care plan not only helps your healthcare team coordinate your treatment more effectively, but also allows you to access Medicare rebates for selected mental health services. This may include visits to psychologists, social workers, or occupational therapists, depending on your individual needs.
Exploring Different Types of Therapy
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to mental health care. At Googong Family Practice, the consulting doctors may recommend evidence-based therapies based on your circumstances. Some of the most common types include:
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Often used to address anxiety, depression, and PTSD, this method focuses on reshaping thought patterns.
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Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Targets interpersonal relationships and how they impact your emotional state.
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Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Encourages present-moment awareness and acceptance to manage stress, trauma, and emotional regulation.
You may also be referred to trusted mental health care professionals who specialise in particular therapeutic techniques or treatment modalities suited to your goals.
Mental Health Support for Families and Carers
The ripple effect of mental health challenges often extends to loved ones. Family members and carers may experience stress, uncertainty, and emotional strain as they try to provide support.
Googong Family Practice recognises this and offers guidance to help carers and family members access the information and resources they need. Whether it’s learning how to navigate emotional conversations, setting healthy boundaries, or finding time for self-care, tailored advice is available.
Tailored Support for Different Age Groups
Mental health concerns don’t discriminate by age—children, adolescents, adults, and older individuals all face unique pressures at various life stages. That’s why it’s important to work with providers who understand these distinctions.
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Whether it’s helping a teenager manage social anxiety, supporting a new parent facing postnatal depression, or offering older adults tools for coping with grief and isolation, the mental health care professionals consulting at Googong Family Practice adapt their care to suit the individual.
​Accessing Mental Health Support Across the Queanbeyan Region
Googong Family Practice proudly supports residents seeking mental health support in Queanbeyan East and mental health support in Queanbeyan West, as well as neighbouring communities. Being part of a regional area shouldn’t mean compromising on the quality or accessibility of care.
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With both in-person consultations and flexible appointment scheduling, patients can receive consistent, local support without having to travel long distances or endure long wait times. This convenience is especially valuable for those seeking ongoing counselling or reviews as part of a mental health service.