Mental Health
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Obtain a mental health referral
Needing Mental Health Support?
Requesting a mental health support can feel like a big step, but it’s a positive move towards getting the help you need. At Instant Consult, we make asking for mental health referrals convenient, safe, and tailored to your comfort.
“First time having to use this service and it was wonderful! It was fast, the Doctor was friendly and efficient. Would highly recommend!” – Lily B.
Expert medical advice at your fingertips with Instant Consult™
Connect with qualified online doctors instantly from 6am-midnight (AEST) 7 days a week, 365 days a year, through video call.
From just $45 and bulk-billed for patients under 12 months of age.
Recognise Yourself in Any of These Conditions?
Anxiety and depression are among the most common mental health conditions, often occurring together. Anxiety involves excessive worry, nervousness, or fear that can interfere with daily activities, while depression is marked by persistent sadness, low energy, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Both conditions can impact sleep, appetite, concentration, and overall wellbeing.
With the right support—such as therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes—many people find meaningful relief and recovery.
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, are serious mental health conditions that affect a person’s relationship with food, body image, and self-worth.
These disorders can lead to significant physical and emotional harm, and often stem from a complex mix of psychological, social, and biological factors.
Early intervention is crucial, and treatment typically involves a combination of medical care, nutritional support, and mental health therapy.
PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as violence, accidents, or abuse. People with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, emotional numbness, and heightened anxiety.
These symptoms can severely affect daily functioning and relationships. Treatment options like trauma-focused therapy and medication can help individuals process their experiences and regain a sense of control and safety in their lives.
Substance use disorders involve the harmful or compulsive use of alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs. Addiction can alter brain function, leading to cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and difficulty stopping despite negative consequences. It often co-occurs with other mental health conditions and may be influenced by genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.
Effective treatment is available and may include counselling, medical support, and rehabilitation services to help individuals recover and rebuild their lives.
Do You Need a Referral to See A Psychologist
Technically, you can see a psychologist without a referral. Psychologists are primary care providers, so you can book an appointment with them directly. However, having one has its perks, :
- • Medicare Rebates:
With a referral, you can access Medicare rebates. This means lower costs for your sessions. - • Coordinated Care:
A referral helps your GP and psychologist work together, and it often includes a summary of your mental health history—giving the psychologist a head start in understanding your needs.
Struggle with your mental health and need time off work?
Just like physical health, mental health matters too. You can request a medical certificate for one or more days. Our doctors will review your request, and if it’s clinically appropriate, they’ll send the certificate straight to your inbox.
FAQs
Doctors are unable to generate a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan via the Instant Consult platform. Please see your local GP.
Alternatively, our doctors can refer you to your nominated psychologist who may then prepare a management plan for you.