Treatment and Recovery

Remember: ​

• Most people will benefit from a combination of treatments
• Everyone is different, so treatment is tailored to each person based on the diagnosis
• There are a range of trained health professionals who can help
• Getting treatment early generally leads to better outcomes and quality of life 

The first step in getting a diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment is to make an appointment with a health professional trained in mental health. This may be a Family Physician or General Practitioners (GP) or Psychiatrist.

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Different diagnoses require different forms of treatment and every person's treatment is different. Most people benefit from a combination of interventions. For mild cases, this could be a combination of preventative measures such as physical exercises, change of lifestyle and meditation, through psychological and medical treatments and at times visiting a hospital for more severe cases. A health practitioner will go through many treatment options and involve the person in their care plan.  Health professionals are duty bound to main​tain confidentiality.  ​

 "Health professionals don't just treat illness, they can help people to take responsibility and manage their health and life"

"Deep inside me, I knew that there was something going wrong and that I needed someone professional to confirm what it was exactly"​​

The first appointment with a health professional can feel difficult, so it might be helpful to write down what you (or a person you are worried about) are experiencing before you go. Make a note of any questions or worries you might have. Some people find it helpful to talk to a trusted friend or family member. The health professional will ask a number of questions about your health and your feelings. Being as open as you can about the symptoms and how they are affecting your daily life will really help. ​

"My doctor immediately recognized​ I had symptoms for anxiety. To be honest at that time I was very happy that someone understood what I was going through"

• Is a personal journey, unique to each person 
• An ongoing process that can take time 
• Is usually assisted by treatment
• Can be an up and down process which may involve setbacks along the way
• Often involves an ongoing wellbeing plan
  

​The family and friends of people with mental health conditions can often feel confused and distressed or unsure of how to support the person they are worried about. Support and education, as well as better community understanding, are an important part of treatment and recovery both for the person affected, and their family and friends.