Desperate/confused

[Hopefullseeking]

Hi all,

l have had depression anxiety all my life, also PTSD, Dysthymia. Been through stuff since l a was a child. See a psychiatrist but my primary therapist is my psychologist. I am on the mental health plan but Medicare only pays half.

My psychologist said we are not getting anywhere as seeing her once a month is ‘maintenance’ and she wants to see me fortnightly but understands the constraints of Medicare. I am on DSP but do manage to put aside and pay what Medicare doesn’t.

I am on medication but can only tolerate a loss dose due to physical reasons so am always fighting my mental health symptoms.

I need more sessions with my psychologist but can’t afford it.

What am I suppose to do?

[baet123]

Hi Hopefullseeking,

Thanks for posting and providing us with a insight of your situation. We are sorry to here that you are struggling at the moment and I know that life is hard enough without having mental and physical conditions to deal with. Have you spoken with your GP or psychiatrist (if you see one) about changing medication or exploring all the options available relating to your medication and that are suitable for you and your physical condition?

Another thing you may consider is contacting your local welfare agency and asking them whether they provide free counselling services. I know many agencies that provide free counselling services (Metro Assist, St Vincent's, Salvos, Exodus Foundation and Anglicare just to name a few). Having any support service that is free of charge and you would be able to see regularly might be extremely beneficial. These welfare agencies also will be able to provide you with assistance with your medication, utility bills and your phone bills. This is something to consider and may lift some weight off your shoulders.

Hope this helps and all the best. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Baet123

[Hopefullseeking]

Thanks for your reply baet123,

l am seeing both my psychiatrist and GP this week so will discuss my appointment issues. As far as medication, what l am taking suits me well, am on a mixture of two and they do help immensely and have actually gone up slightly a few months ago.

i have been seeing my psychiatrist off and on for a long time and don’t want to change, Unfortunately for me she is approaching retirement. My psychologist l have been seeing for about 4 years and have made huge progress but as my history is long and traumatic it’s difficult to see someone new. She knows my history and reads me well so can pick things without me having to go into details.

I am in my 60’s recounting my past is difficult so prefer to stay with the professionals l have now. I know l am not making it easy for youbaet123 and sorry for that.

Financially l manage well, in Dept of Housing which helps.

I guess at my age l am sick of the roller coaster that is my mental health but keep riding the waves.

[baet123]

Hi Hopefullseeking,

Excuse my late reply. I am so very sorry.

That is great that your medication is helping.

Your feelings about your psychiatrist and psychologist are great. Why fix something if it isn't broke right? It is great that they have been able to help you and you have made huge progress under their care and treatment and that is amazing and you should be proud. Having that familiarity with your health professionals and them knowing a lot about you, your intricacies etc is super important.

You are making it easy for me because it seems you are doing great and I am really happy you have things under control. Hats off to you hopeful!

Maybe you can ask your psychiatrist if she recommends someone who she trusts professionally to take you on as a patient once your current psychiatrist retires? Have you spoken about this with your psychiatrist?

Good to hear that you are managing at the present and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Baet123 (Nick)