At Qualitas Medical Practice, we understand that life can present unexpected and distressing challenges. Witnessing or experiencing traumatic events can deeply affect your mental health, leaving you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to turn.

On R U OK Day, we want to remind you that seeking support is a sign of strength. You don’t have to go through it alone—whether you’ve been directly impacted or witnessed someone else’s distress, there are ways to access help and support others.

1. Immediate Mental Health Support in Australia

If you’ve witnessed a traumatic event or are struggling emotionally, it’s essential to speak to someone who can help. Australia offers several services that provide confidential, 24/7 mental health support:

• Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14.
• Beyond Blue: Call 1300 22 4636 or visit beyondblue.org.au for online chat support and helpful resources.
• Kids Helpline: Available to children and young people up to age 25, call 1800 55 1800 for free, confidential counselling.

These services are there to listen, provide advice, and connect you with the right resources, no matter how you’re feeling.

2. Supporting Others in Distress

If someone close to you or someone you witness is in distress, asking, “Are you OK?” can make a big difference. You don’t need to have all the answers—just listening and showing you care can be a powerful first step in helping them feel supported. Encourage them to speak up and, if needed, guide them to professional support.

3. What To Do If You Witness Someone in Distress

If you find yourself in a situation where someone needs help:

• Approach them calmly and ask how they are feeling.
• Stay with them until professional help arrives.
• If the situation is an emergency, don’t hesitate to call 000 for immediate assistance.

4. Multilingual Mental Health Services

Australia is a diverse and multicultural country, and it’s essential that everyone has access to the support they need, regardless of language. Our practice understands the importance of being able to communicate in your preferred language. Many of our doctors are multilingual, offering mental health care in different languages to help bridge the gap.

In addition, national services provide multilingual support:

• Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National): If you or someone you know prefers to speak in a language other than English, TIS National can assist. Call 131 450 for an interpreter who will help connect you to the right mental health services.

5. How Our Practice Can Help

A great starting point for addressing anxiety is to visit your GP. GPs are experienced in handling mental health concerns, including anxiety and depression, and can guide you towards the most effective ways to manage how you’re feeling. [Black Dog: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/anxiety/help-support/]

A GP skilled in mental health care can offer valuable support and strategies to help you overcome anxiety. Your GP can:

• Listen to your concerns and provide a safe space to talk.
• Identify any underlying health issues that might be contributing to your anxiety.
• Discuss various treatment options that could work for you.
• Prescribe medication if necessary.
• Refer you to mental health professionals such as counsellors, psychologists, or psychiatrists for specialised care.
• Recommended lifestyle changes to improve your well-being.

At Qualitas Medical Practice, our GPs are here to support your mental health and overall well-being. Our team includes doctors who speak multiple languages, ensuring that language isn’t a barrier to receiving quality care. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope, our GPs can provide mental health services, including counselling, referrals, and long-term care plans.

You can find more information about our doctors and the services they offer on our website. We encourage you to reach out to book an appointment and talk to a GP who understands your needs.

6. Recommended E-Health Tools

There are also excellent e-health tools available to support your mental health journey. These tools are designed to help people experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges by offering accessible, evidence-based programmes.

• myCompass: Developed by the Black Dog Institute, myCompass is a free online self-help programme that’s been proven to relieve symptoms in people with mild-to-moderate anxiety and depression. It’s accessible via your mobile phone, tablet, or computer, making it easy to use anytime, anywhere.
• This Way Up: A not-for-profit initiative developed by psychiatrists and clinical psychologists at St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney. It offers a range of online, mental health programmes, with a small registration fee required. This tool has been shown to help people manage anxiety and depression effectively.
• MoodGYM: A free self-help programme that teaches cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) skills to help people vulnerable to depression and anxiety. It’s an interactive tool that equips you with strategies to improve your mental health.
• HeadtoHealth: Head to Health is a free confidential service from the Australian Government. It was designed in collaboration with hundreds of Australians. This includes people with lived experience of mental health challenges and the people who support them, health professionals, and service providers.

7. Prioritise self-care

After experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, self-care is crucial. Engage in activities that help you relax, like exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. If you feel that you need more support, speaking with a mental health professional is always an option—don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Remember, You Are Not Alone

Whether you’re personally impacted or concerned for someone else, reaching out for help can make a world of difference. Our team at Qualitas Medical Practice is here to provide the care and support you need to navigate these challenges. It’s OK to not be OK—take the first step towards healing today.

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