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Monthly Archives: October 2015

Australian researchers develop ‘world-first’ guidelines for PTSD

ABC News In what has been hailed a “world-first”, a group of Australian clinicians and researchers have developed national guidelines for the treatment and diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder in frontline emergency workers. At least 8,000 police, fire and ambulance officers are believed to be living with post-traumatic stress disorder — or PTSD, as it’s commonly known. The guidelines’ lead author, Doctor Sam Harvey from University of New South Wales …

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Join the Australian and New Zealand Mental Health Association

The Australian and New Zealand Mental Health Association is a non government, not for profit organisation.  The advisory board representatives have a wide background in Mental Health issues within Australia and New Zealand. The role of the Association is to advance the field of mental health through the application of knowledge about mental health. From mental health education, training and research to mental health advocacy. The Association publishes books of …

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Expert calls for mental health shake-up

SBS News Mental health sufferers are stigmatised by the professionals that are supposed to be caring for them, according to a globally-renowned expert calling for a shake-up of the system. Professor Mike Slade, from King’s College London’s Institute of Psychiatry, says the current attitude of mental health professionals is one of “do what we tell you to do and you will be well again.” He says stigma against mental illness …

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Does positive thinking really improve mental health?

ABC News How often have you been told to “look on the bright side” or “focus on the good things” when times are tough? It can feel as though every self-help book, TV show and family member wants you to stop feeling sad, angry or depressed, and find the silver lining in every difficult situation. Proponents of positive thinking would have us believe it is one of the best ways …

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Rural doctor reflects on changes in treating mental health

ABC Rural We often talk about the patients in rural communities dealing with mental health issues, but what about the doctors who help them? Many young medical students are sent to rural and remote communities as a requirement for their studies, preparation not offered to those before them. Queensland doctor and academic, Tarun Sen Gupta has worked in medicine for more than 30 years. At the age of 24 he …

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Most Australians don’t seek support when feeling stressed or sad

ABC News Only 18 per cent of Australians regularly seek support when stressed or feeling down, according to a new survey. Research commissioned by Mental Health Australia examined what activities Australians undertook to improve their mental health and wellbeing against 10 key activities. The study examined things such as sleep, exercise, diet, involvement in the community and seeking advice or support. “Generally, Australians are doing better than expected regarding their …

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Seeing a doctor for sadness: What your GP can do about depression

ABC News Taboos around mental health mean many people are reluctant to ask for help but, as with other illnesses, your GP can help you recover from depression. Emergency department doctor Casey Parker said that when people overcame their reluctance to talk to their GP about depression, they often felt a sense of relief. Feeling sad and low at times is part of a normal, healthy life. But Dr Parker …

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