Why See a Psychologist?
The essence of good mental health lies in having a strong social network and the support of friends, family, and the community to help us lead meaningful lives.
While some mental health challenges may stem from medical, developmental, or physical issues, others come from the way we interact with our social world.
Where medication, developmental, or even physical supports are not the solution, turning to a Psychologist can be beneficial.
Psychologists have the ability to connect mental health difficulties with individual functioning and help to decode some of the life stressors that can weigh us down.
Each of us face unique challenges that can shape our perception of the world.
What are ‘life stressors’?
Life stressors may appear relatively benign but have a significant impact on our mental health such as:
· changes in employment or our home environment: Adjusting to new work situations or living conditions can be surprisingly challenging.
· family issues: The dynamics of separated or blended families, or adjusting to new family roles, can create considerable stress.
Or more socially challenging life stressors such as:
· traumatic circumstances that can range from a single incident to violence or catastrophe
· domestic violence or lifelong neglect or abuse
· grief that is prolonged and causes isolation
These are just a few examples, but it's essential to recognize that each of us face unique challenges that can shape our perception of the world.
Sometimes our perceptions can cause us to become stuck in patterns of thinking and behaviour that can have long-term consequences for our mental, emotional, and even physical health, as well as our interactions in the wider world.
How can a Psychologist help me to manage my life stressors?
Psychologists can help us to understand how events and life stressors impact our mental health. They provide valuable strategies to help us regain control of our thoughts and behaviours and include:
· Cognitive behavioural therapy – where thoughts and behaviours that are not useful are challenged and countered with more adaptive strategies to tackle life
· Dialectical behavioural therapy – where difficulties with social functioning and emotional dysregulation are highlighted to manage positive change
· Trauma focused therapy – Combining psychoeducation on how the nervous system responds to trauma with mindfulness and cognitive processing to help unravel the trauma that can become trapped in our bodies and minds.
· Grief work – where space for moving through and beyond grief is held while respecting the memory of those who are no longer with us.
· Family therapy – where families are invited to work together to help support their loved ones to move past and beyond difficulties that often disrupt family harmony.
Each person is unique in how they respond to support. At Amity Health, our approach is person-centred, recognizing that our past experiences often influence how we face current challenges.
We offer strategies grounded in the "here and now" to help individuals deal with life's ups and downs.
Do I need a referral to see a Psychologist?
Families and individuals can self-refer directly to Amity Health or speak with your GP to discuss if a Mental Health Plan is an option.
Speaking with a psychologist who can work alongside you to navigate your challenges, can help you on the pathway to living a meaningful life. Remember, seeking help is a strength.