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Stronger Together: Taking Care of Mental Health in Regional Australia

It’s no secret that people living in regional, rural and remote parts of Australia are used to pushing through tough seasons and “getting on with the job”.

When it comes to putting their mental health first, though, it’s often this distance that makes accessing much-needed services difficult. And when it comes to seeing a specialist or even a GP, the long drives and waiting times can make looking after mental health in rural areas harder than it should be. 

Not everyone feels ready to call support lines like Lifeline Australia or Beyond Blue, and that’s okay. Those services are always there when needed. 

But having options to turn to for mental health support can have a big impact. 

Why Mental Health Can Feel Harder to Manage in Rural Communities

Maybe you’re a person living regionally who’s realised they need mental health support. Recognising this is a great first step. You could also have a family member who is struggling, and you’re not sure what to do.

To begin with, the nearest psychologist might be a two-hour drive away. Appointments with the local GPs are most likely full, with a waitlist that can often turn people off even making a booking. Out-of-pocket costs, especially for specialists, can be overwhelming. Then there’s the privacy factor – if you’re struggling, you don’t want your neighbours to know your every move.

According to the National Rural Health Alliance, people in regional and remote Australia have significantly less access to mental health professionals than their metropolitan counterparts, with many rural communities having fewer than half the services per capita available in major cities. (1)

Stigma is still one of the biggest barriers to seeking mental health support in regional and rural communities, and it often disguises itself as common sense.

‘I should just tough it out’. ‘It’s not that serious, I don’t need help.’ ‘I’m not comfortable talking to a psychologist’.

The good news is that mental health services have changed no matter where in Australia you live, and this is especially helpful for people who live in rural areas. There are now mental health telehealth services you can do from the privacy of your own home.

Signs and symptoms to look out for

Often, the signs start small. You feel tired and overwhelmed. Your sleep is disrupted. You have trouble concentrating and get easily irritated. You know this isn’t the ‘real you’ but can’t see the forest for the trees.

The first step is recognising your mental health needs some ‘love’. And make no mistake, this is the single biggest step you can take to helping yourself. So, if you’ve done that, congratulations.

There are little things you can do to cope. Get outside more. Detox a bit from the digital world. Ask for help with chores.

What If You Want Professional Support but Live Far from Physical Services?

Distance is no longer the barrier it once was. Mental health telehealth services have made it possible to connect with qualified psychologists, counsellors, and support programs from anywhere with a reasonable internet or phone connection.

A good starting point is your GP. Long waiting times to see one in person? Telehealth is becoming more and more accessible. From there, a Mental Health Treatment Plan (also called a mental health plan in Australia) can be created. This is a formal plan that allows access to Medicare-rebated psychology sessions, typically up to ten per calendar year.

Online mental health platforms and telehealth counselling services now offer a growing range of options, many of which are specifically designed for people in regional and remote regions – and all you need is a laptop or computer. These services are evidence-based, confidential, and — importantly — accessible from a lounge room, car, or even your paddock.

How does Westfund help support mental health?

With deep roots in regional Australia and a longstanding commitment to rural and regional communities, Westfund understands that accessing mental health care out here looks different. The distances are longer and the services are fewer.

So, how can we help?
Let’s start with a telehealth appointment with a GP to set up a Mental Health Care Plan. Eligible Westfund members also receive $5 off telehealth appointments through our partnership with Doctors on Demand; a practical way to access GP consultations and mental health referrals, including a mental health plan, from wherever you are.

There are also other options. Eligible members can access a range of mental health programs, including:

Waiting until things feel unbearable isn't a requirement for asking for help. Mental health works best when it's managed early, like any other aspect of health. Whether that means talking to a GP, exploring online mental health resources, checking what your health fund covers, or simply telling someone close that things have been tough; every step counts.

The first step doesn't need to be big. It just needs to happen.

If you need immediate support, Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14, and Beyond Blue can be reached on 1300 22 4636.

Sources
(1) National Rural Health Alliance. (2021). Mental Health in Rural and Remote Australia — Fact Sheet. NRHA. https://www.ruralhealth.org.au
(2) Services Australia. (2024). Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners — Medicare Benefits Schedule. https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au