Feel like no one can help

[Jusanxiety]

Feeling completely broken right now. I have had this anxiety for 6 weeks now. My psychologist is lovely but not very helpful and whilst I have now been given a reference to a psychiatrist by my GP I have just been advised that the consultation is going to be $440. I can't afford this and I just don't know what to do. The mental health system is failing me and I just don't know what to do.

[Zeal]

Hi Just anxiety,

It's positive that you've sought help for your anxiety so early! I'm glad you've been referred to the psychiatrist by your GP - doctors are a great first base. That is very expensive for an initial consult! Though I realise it's not ideal, is there a way to postpone the first psychiatrist appointment until you have a chance to save enough money? Would it be practical to borrow some of the money from a close relative who you have a good relationship with?

I hope you can find a way to get the help you need! Post back if you want to talk some more 🙂

Best wishes,

SM

[Bluey_moon]

Hi Jusanxiety,

Well good on you for seeking treatment!

I too suffer anxiety.

I know it doesn't help with the initial cost but are you able to get some of the money back through Medicare?

Im not sure if it is an option for you but many hospitals have mental health departments. They are free and they can provide you with medication advice and 24 hour advice. I speak from experience, I have found them super helpful. ( I see a private psycologist, I have seen a private psyciatrist and my mental health team at the base hospital).

Congratulations on seeking help, and reaching out to BB.

Take care,

Skye

[White_Rose]

Hello Jusanxiety

Welcome to the forum. It is unfortunate when a professional helper does not quite fit. May I ask, are you seeing the psychologist using a mental health plan? I ask because the psych's fees are quite high unless Medicare is paying the bulk of the fee. $440 is a huge amount for a psychiatrist fee, even for a first appointment. Medicare will pay part of the fee, just as they pay part of your GP's fee, but this is a bit rich.

Can you ask your GP to give you a referral to someone with lower fees? I saw a psychiatrist a couple of months ago and the fee was half that amount. Medicare paid about $160 from memory. Subsequent fees were about $180. It certainly discriminates against lower paid workers.

If you think you can manage it, have a look at on-line counseling and learning modules. Go to Mindspot https://mindspot.org.au/ and explore that web site. They can take you through the process and it may be suitable for you. The best part is that it is free. Also try SANE. the web address is www. sane.org Both of these organisations are free and may be able to help you or point you to a suitable service.

You can also contact Relationship Australia who offer free or low cost counseling, or Anglicare, Lifeline and I think the Salvation Army, but I'm not certain that last one.

Let me know how you go with this please. And continue to write in here.

Mary