Women’s Mental Health & Wellbeing Support Australia

🧠 Your mental health matters: Australian women are 1.5x more likely to experience anxiety and depression than men. 1 in 3 women aged 15-34 have been diagnosed with mental health conditions. From perinatal depression to workplace stress, menopause mental health to body image pressures - specialized support, evidence-based treatments, and understanding communities are available.

🚨 Crisis Mental Health Support - Available 24/7

🆘 If you’re in mental health crisis or having thoughts of self-harm:

Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 (24/7)
Mental Health Emergency: 000 or go to nearest hospital
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (24/7 depression and anxiety)

📊 Women’s Mental Health in Australia - The Reality

Statistical Overview (2024-2025)

  • Depression: 24.6% of Australian women vs 18.3% of men have experienced mental health disorders
  • Young Women Crisis: Almost 1 in 3 women aged 15-34 diagnosed with anxiety or depression
  • Perinatal Mental Health: 15-20% of women experience postnatal depression, 10-15% prenatal anxiety
  • Workplace Stress: 19% of women experience high/very high psychological distress
  • Body Image: 69% of women report dissatisfaction with their body, 84% avoid activities due to body shame
  • Eating Disorders: 9% lifetime prevalence in women (3x higher than men)

Unique Challenges for Australian Women

  • Hormonal Fluctuations: Menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause affecting mental health
  • Care Responsibilities: 71% of unpaid care work done by women, leading to burnout
  • Career Pressure: Balancing motherhood penalties with professional ambitions
  • Financial Stress: Gender pay gap contributing to long-term security anxiety
  • Social Expectations: Managing multiple roles and perfectionism pressures

🌸 Perinatal Mental Health - Pregnancy to Toddlerhood

Understanding Perinatal Mental Health Conditions

Prenatal (During Pregnancy) Conditions:

  1. Prenatal Depression

    • Symptoms: Persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue beyond normal pregnancy tiredness
    • Risk Factors: Previous depression, relationship problems, unplanned pregnancy, financial stress
    • Impact: Can affect baby’s development, birth weight, and bonding
  2. Prenatal Anxiety

    • Symptoms: Excessive worry about baby’s health, birth process, parenting ability
    • Physical Signs: Panic attacks, insomnia, muscle tension
    • Complications: May increase risk of premature birth and postpartum depression

Postnatal (After Birth) Conditions:

  1. Postpartum Depression (PPD)

    • Timeline: Can occur within first year after birth
    • Symptoms: Severe mood changes, exhaustion, difficulty bonding with baby
    • Severity: More intense and longer-lasting than “baby blues”
  2. Postpartum Anxiety

    • Manifestations: Constant worry about baby’s safety, intrusive thoughts
    • Physical: Racing heart, trouble sleeping even when baby sleeps
    • Behaviors: Checking baby excessively, avoiding leaving house
  3. Postpartum Psychosis (Medical Emergency)

    • Frequency: 1-2 in 1000 births, requires immediate medical attention
    • Symptoms: Hallucinations, delusions, severe confusion
    • Action: Call 000 immediately - this is a psychiatric emergency

Getting Help for Perinatal Mental Health

Immediate Support Services

  • PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia): 1300 726 306

    • Helpline: Monday-Friday 9am-7:30pm
    • Live chat and email support
    • Peer support groups and online forums
  • Beyond Blue Pregnancy Support: 1300 22 4636

    • 24/7 counseling and information
    • Pregnancy and early parenthood specific resources
    • Online chat and email support

Professional Treatment Options

  1. Healthcare Team Assembly

    • GP: First point of contact, mental health assessment
    • Obstetrician/Midwife: Pregnancy-specific mental health screening
    • Psychiatrist: Medication management during pregnancy/breastfeeding
    • Psychologist: Specialized perinatal mental health therapy
  2. Evidence-Based Treatments

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Most effective for perinatal depression and anxiety
    • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on relationship and role changes
    • Group Therapy: Peer support with other new mothers
    • Mother-Baby Therapy: Bonding and attachment support
  3. Medication Considerations

    • During Pregnancy: Some antidepressants safe (sertraline, fluoxetine)
    • While Breastfeeding: Most SSRIs compatible with breastfeeding
    • Risk-Benefit: Untreated depression often riskier than medication
    • Specialist Consultation: Reproductive psychiatrist for complex cases

Support for Partners and Families

Partner Mental Health

  • Paternal Depression: 10% of fathers experience postnatal depression
  • Anxiety in Partners: Common response to partner’s perinatal mental health issues
  • Support Groups: Dad-specific groups and online communities
  • Professional Help: Individual counseling and couples therapy

Family Support Strategies

  • Education: Understanding perinatal mental health conditions
  • Practical Help: Meal preparation, household tasks, childcare
  • Emotional Support: Non-judgmental listening and encouragement
  • Professional Advocacy: Helping access services and appointments

💼 Workplace Mental Health for Women

Understanding Gender-Specific Workplace Stressors

Common Workplace Mental Health Challenges for Women:

  1. Sexual Harassment and Discrimination

    • Prevalence: 41% of women experience workplace sexual harassment
    • Mental Health Impact: PTSD, depression, anxiety, loss of confidence
    • Physical Symptoms: Insomnia, headaches, gastrointestinal issues
    • Career Impact: Reduced performance, absenteeism, career change
  2. Motherhood Penalty

    • Bias: Assumptions about reduced commitment after having children
    • Stress Sources: Flexible work negotiations, school holiday coverage
    • Guilt: Balancing work demands with parenting responsibilities
    • Financial Pressure: Career progression delays affecting long-term security
  3. Imposter Syndrome and Perfectionism

    • Gender Difference: Women 25% more likely to experience imposter syndrome
    • Perfectionism: Higher standards leading to burnout and anxiety
    • Self-Promotion: Difficulty advocating for achievements and promotions
    • Risk-Taking: Over-preparation and under-confidence in applying for roles

Building Workplace Mental Health Resilience

Individual Strategies:

  1. Stress Management Techniques

    • Boundary Setting: Clear work hours and communication expectations
    • Priority Management: Using frameworks like Eisenhower Matrix
    • Mindfulness Practice: 10-minute daily meditation using apps like Headspace
    • Physical Activity: Regular exercise to manage stress hormones
  2. Communication Skills

    • Assertiveness Training: Expressing needs without aggression or passive behavior
    • Conflict Resolution: Addressing workplace issues directly and professionally
    • Feedback Seeking: Regular check-ins with supervisor about performance
    • Support Network: Building alliances with colleagues and mentors

Workplace Mental Health Resources:

  1. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

    • Free Counseling: Usually 3-8 sessions per year
    • 24/7 Support: Phone and online counseling available
    • Specialized Services: Financial counseling, relationship support
    • Confidentiality: Employer only knows utilization rates, not individual use
  2. Mental Health First Aid

    • Training: Learning to recognize mental health issues in colleagues
    • Support Skills: How to have supportive conversations
    • Resource Knowledge: Understanding referral options and crisis procedures
    • Stigma Reduction: Contributing to more supportive workplace culture

Mental Health Discrimination Protection:

  • Disability Discrimination Act: Mental health conditions covered as disabilities
  • Reasonable Adjustments: Flexible hours, modified duties, quiet workspace
  • Privacy Rights: Medical information confidentiality requirements
  • Return to Work: Graduated return plans after mental health leave

Workers’ Compensation for Mental Health:

  • Work-Related Conditions: Stress, anxiety, depression caused by work
  • Evidence Requirements: Medical certification and workplace incident documentation
  • Coverage: Treatment costs, income replacement during recovery
  • Return to Work Support: Rehabilitation and job modification assistance

🌺 Menopause and Mental Health

Understanding Menopause Mental Health Changes

Perimenopause Mental Health (Ages 40-55):

  • Hormonal Fluctuations: Estrogen and progesterone changes affecting neurotransmitters
  • Common Symptoms: Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, brain fog, memory issues
  • Depression Risk: 2.5x higher risk during perimenopause transition
  • Sleep Disruption: Hot flashes and hormone changes affecting sleep quality

Menopause-Related Mental Health Symptoms:

  1. Cognitive Changes

    • Memory Issues: Difficulty with word recall and short-term memory
    • Concentration Problems: Reduced focus and decision-making ability
    • Brain Fog: Feeling mentally unclear or cloudy
    • Processing Speed: Taking longer to complete cognitive tasks
  2. Mood Disorders

    • Depression: New onset or worsening of existing depression
    • Anxiety: Generalized worry, panic attacks, social anxiety
    • Irritability: Increased frustration and anger responses
    • Emotional Regulation: Difficulty managing emotional responses

Treatment and Management Strategies

Medical Treatments:

  1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

    • Mental Health Benefits: Can improve mood, cognition, and sleep
    • Types: Estrogen-only, combined estrogen-progesterone
    • Delivery Methods: Patches, gels, tablets, implants
    • Individualized Approach: Risk-benefit analysis with healthcare provider
  2. Antidepressant Medications

    • SSRIs: Effective for menopause-related depression and hot flashes
    • SNRIs: May help with both mood and physical symptoms
    • Non-Hormonal Options: For women who cannot or choose not to use HRT
    • Dosage Considerations: May need adjustments during hormone transition

Non-Medical Approaches:

  1. Lifestyle Interventions

    • Regular Exercise: 150 minutes moderate activity per week
    • Strength Training: Helps with bone density and mood regulation
    • Mediterranean Diet: Anti-inflammatory foods supporting brain health
    • Sleep Hygiene: Consistent sleep schedule and cool sleeping environment
  2. Psychological Support

    • Menopause-Focused Therapy: Specialized counseling for transition challenges
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: For mood management and coping strategies
    • Support Groups: Connecting with other women experiencing similar changes
    • Mindfulness Training: Managing stress and emotional regulation

Workplace Support During Menopause

Seeking Workplace Accommodations:

  • Temperature Control: Fan, desk location changes, flexible dress code
  • Flexible Scheduling: Accommodating sleep disruption and medical appointments
  • Stress Reduction: Modified duties during particularly difficult symptoms
  • Privacy: Access to quiet space for managing symptoms

Building Menopause-Friendly Workplaces:

  • Education: Raising awareness about menopause impact on work performance
  • Policy Development: Clear guidelines for menopause-related accommodations
  • Support Networks: Employee resource groups for women going through menopause
  • Healthcare Benefits: Comprehensive coverage for menopause treatments

🍽️ Eating Disorders and Body Image

Understanding Eating Disorders in Australian Women

Prevalence and Types:

  • Anorexia Nervosa: 0.9% lifetime prevalence in women
  • Bulimia Nervosa: 1.5% lifetime prevalence in women
  • Binge Eating Disorder: 3.5% lifetime prevalence in women
  • ARFID/OSFED: Other specified feeding/eating disorders increasingly recognized

Cultural and Social Factors:

  1. Social Media Influence

    • Image Comparison: Instagram and TikTok promoting unrealistic body standards
    • Diet Culture: Constant exposure to weight loss and fitness content
    • Influencer Impact: Unregulated health and fitness advice
    • Filtered Reality: Unrealistic beauty standards through photo editing
  2. Australian Cultural Pressures

    • Beach Culture: Pressure around swimwear and body exposure
    • Fitness Culture: Exercise addiction and extreme fitness standards
    • Diet Industry: $638 million industry promoting quick fixes
    • Workplace Pressure: Appearance-based discrimination and bias

Recognition and Early Intervention

Warning Signs of Eating Disorders:

  1. Behavioral Changes

    • Avoiding social situations involving food
    • Rigid eating patterns or food rules
    • Excessive exercise or compensatory behaviors
    • Frequent weight checking or body checking
  2. Physical Symptoms

    • Rapid weight loss or gain
    • Dental problems from vomiting
    • Hair loss, brittle nails, dry skin
    • Irregular periods or loss of menstruation
  3. Psychological Signs

    • Obsessive thoughts about food, weight, body shape
    • Depression, anxiety, irritability
    • Perfectionism and control issues
    • Social withdrawal and isolation

Treatment and Recovery Resources

Professional Treatment Options:

  1. Specialized Eating Disorder Services

    • The Butterfly Foundation: 1800 334 673 (National helpline)
    • Public Hospital Programs: Inpatient and outpatient treatment
    • Private Treatment Centers: Intensive specialized programs
    • University Clinics: Research-based treatment with reduced costs
  2. Treatment Approaches

    • Family-Based Treatment (FBT): Most effective for adolescents
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E): Specialized for eating disorders
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): For emotional regulation
    • Nutritional Rehabilitation: Working with dietitians specialized in eating disorders

Body Image Therapy and Support:

  1. Body Positive Approaches

    • Health at Every Size (HAES): Focus on health behaviors rather than weight
    • Intuitive Eating: Learning to trust body’s hunger and satiety cues
    • Self-Compassion Training: Reducing self-criticism and shame
    • Media Literacy: Critical evaluation of beauty standards and advertising
  2. Support Groups and Communities

    • Butterfly Foundation Support Groups: Face-to-face and online meetings
    • Body Positive Australia: Community events and workshops
    • ANZAED: Professional organization with consumer resources
    • Online Communities: Moderated forums for peer support and recovery

🎭 Managing Social Anxiety and Perfectionism

Understanding Women-Specific Social Anxiety

Gender Differences in Social Anxiety:

  • Prevalence: Women 2x more likely to experience social anxiety disorder
  • Manifestation: More likely to experience blushing, trembling, and fear of negative evaluation
  • Social Situations: Particular difficulty with assertiveness and conflict
  • Professional Impact: Under-participation in meetings, avoiding leadership roles

Perfectionism and Its Mental Health Impact:

  1. Types of Perfectionism

    • Self-Oriented: Extremely high personal standards
    • Other-Oriented: Expecting perfection from others
    • Socially Prescribed: Believing others expect perfection from you
  2. Mental Health Consequences

    • Increased Depression: Failure to meet impossible standards
    • Anxiety Disorders: Constant worry about making mistakes
    • Procrastination: Avoiding tasks due to fear of imperfection
    • Burnout: Exhaustion from unsustainable standards

Treatment Strategies for Social Anxiety

Cognitive Behavioral Approaches:

  1. Thought Challenging

    • Identifying catastrophic thinking patterns
    • Developing balanced, realistic thoughts
    • Evidence gathering for and against anxious predictions
    • Creating coping statements for challenging situations
  2. Behavioral Interventions

    • Gradual Exposure: Systematically facing feared social situations
    • Role Playing: Practicing difficult conversations in safe environment
    • Social Skills Training: Building confidence in interpersonal interactions
    • Assertiveness Training: Learning to express needs and boundaries

Managing Perfectionism:

  1. Setting Realistic Standards

    • Good Enough Philosophy: Recognizing when something is adequate
    • Time Limits: Setting boundaries on how long to spend on tasks
    • Mistake Reframing: Viewing errors as learning opportunities
    • Process Focus: Valuing effort and growth over perfect outcomes
  2. Self-Compassion Development

    • Mindfulness Practice: Observing perfectionistic thoughts without judgment
    • Self-Kindness: Treating yourself with the same kindness you’d show a friend
    • Common Humanity: Recognizing that imperfection is part of human experience
    • Emotional Regulation: Managing the distress that comes with making mistakes

🌈 LGBTQ+ Women’s Mental Health

Unique Mental Health Challenges

Minority Stress and Mental Health:

  • Discrimination: Experience of prejudice and rejection affecting wellbeing
  • Internalized Homophobia: Negative beliefs about one’s own sexual orientation
  • Concealment: Mental energy spent hiding identity in unsupportive environments
  • Coming Out Stress: Ongoing process of disclosure in different life contexts

Intersectional Mental Health Issues:

  1. Double Discrimination

    • Gender-based discrimination plus sexual orientation/gender identity discrimination
    • Workplace challenges in male-dominated or conservative industries
    • Healthcare discrimination and inadequate culturally competent care
  2. Family and Social Relationships

    • Family rejection and loss of support systems
    • Social isolation in heteronormative environments
    • Difficulty finding supportive community and role models

LGBTQ+-Affirmative Mental Health Resources

Specialized Services:

  • QLife: 1800 184 527 (Australia-wide anonymous LGBTQ+ counseling)
  • Lifeline LGBTI Community: 1800 184 527 (peer support)
  • Beyond Blue LGBTQ+: Specialized resources and support groups
  • Rainbow Door: Victoria-based LGBTQ+ health and support services

Mental Health Treatment Considerations:

  1. Finding Affirmative Therapists

    • Australian Psychological Society: Directory of LGBTQ+-affirmative practitioners
    • ACON Health: LGBTQ+ health services in NSW
    • Thorne Harbour Health: Victoria LGBTQ+ specialized services
    • Training Verification: Therapists with specific LGBTQ+ competency training
  2. Treatment Approaches

    • Minority Stress Model: Understanding impact of social prejudice
    • Identity-Affirmative Therapy: Celebrating rather than pathologizing identity
    • Intersectional Approach: Considering multiple identity aspects
    • Trauma-Informed Care: Addressing discrimination-related trauma

👥 Building Support Networks and Communities

Creating Mental Health Support Systems

Professional Support Team:

  1. Core Team Assembly

    • GP: Mental health care planning and referrals
    • Psychologist/Counselor: Regular therapy and coping strategies
    • Psychiatrist: Medication management if needed
    • Other Specialists: Depending on specific needs (dietitian, OT, etc.)
  2. Peer Support Networks

    • Support Groups: Condition-specific groups (depression, anxiety, eating disorders)
    • Online Communities: Moderated forums and social media groups
    • Peer Support Programs: Trained peer workers with lived experience
    • Mental Health First Aid: Community members trained to provide initial support

Family and Friend Support:

  1. Education and Communication

    • Sharing information about mental health conditions
    • Clear communication about needs and boundaries
    • Regular check-ins and ongoing dialogue
    • Realistic expectations about recovery process
  2. Practical Support Strategies

    • Crisis Planning: Clear steps for mental health emergencies
    • Daily Support: Help with routine tasks during difficult periods
    • Treatment Support: Assistance attending appointments and following treatment plans
    • Celebration and Encouragement: Recognizing progress and achievements

Workplace Mental Health Support

Building Supportive Workplace Culture:

  1. Mental Health Champions

    • Colleagues trained in mental health awareness
    • Safe spaces for conversation about mental wellbeing
    • Reduced stigma through education and openness
    • Regular team wellbeing check-ins
  2. Flexible Work Arrangements

    • Mental Health Days: Recognition that mental health is as important as physical health
    • Flexible Hours: Accommodating therapy appointments and medication schedules
    • Workload Management: Realistic expectations during treatment periods
    • Career Protection: Ensuring mental health treatment doesn’t impact advancement

🎯 Prevention and Early Intervention Strategies

Mental Health Prevention for Australian Women

Lifestyle Factors for Mental Wellbeing:

  1. Physical Health Foundation

    • Regular Exercise: 150 minutes moderate activity weekly
    • Nutrition: Mediterranean diet or similar anti-inflammatory approach
    • Sleep Hygiene: 7-9 hours consistent sleep schedule
    • Substance Use: Limiting alcohol and avoiding recreational drugs
  2. Social Connection

    • Relationship Investment: Maintaining close friendships and family connections
    • Community Involvement: Volunteering, clubs, religious or spiritual communities
    • Professional Networks: Building supportive workplace relationships
    • Online Boundaries: Healthy social media use and digital wellness

Stress Management and Resilience:

  1. Mindfulness and Meditation

    • Daily Practice: Even 10 minutes can reduce stress hormones
    • Apps and Resources: Headspace, Calm, Ten Percent Happier
    • Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): 8-week evidence-based programs
    • Body Awareness: Yoga, tai chi, progressive muscle relaxation
  2. Cognitive Resilience

    • Thought Pattern Awareness: Recognizing negative thinking patterns
    • Problem-Solving Skills: Breaking problems into manageable steps
    • Meaning and Purpose: Connecting daily activities to larger values and goals
    • Gratitude Practice: Regular acknowledgment of positive aspects of life

Early Warning System Development

Personal Mental Health Monitoring:

  1. Mood Tracking

    • Daily Mood Apps: Daylio, Mood Meter, or simple 1-10 scale
    • Trigger Identification: Recognizing patterns in mood changes
    • Sleep and Energy Tracking: Understanding relationships between physical and mental health
    • Medication Effectiveness: Monitoring if using psychiatric medications
  2. Social Support Alert System

    • Trusted Person Network: 3-5 people who can recognize changes in your mental health
    • Check-in Schedule: Regular contact with support network members
    • Crisis Contact List: Easily accessible emergency contacts and services
    • Professional Relationship Maintenance: Regular mental health check-ups

📞 Comprehensive Mental Health Resource Directory

Crisis and Emergency Support (24/7)

  • Lifeline: 13 11 14 - Crisis support and suicide prevention
  • Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 - Professional telephone and online counseling
  • Mental Health Emergency: 000 - Immediate psychiatric emergency
  • Emergency Services: 000 - Life-threatening situations

General Mental Health Support

  • Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 - Depression, anxiety, and suicide prevention
  • SANE Australia: 1800 18 7263 - Mental illness information and support
  • Mental Health Australia: mentalhealth.org.au - National advocacy and resources
  • Black Dog Institute: blackdoginstitute.org.au - Mood disorder research and resources

Specialized Women’s Mental Health

  • Jean Hailes for Women’s Health: 1800 JEAN HAILES (532 642) - Women’s health including mental health
  • Women’s Health Victoria: whv.org.au - Advocacy and resources for women’s health
  • PANDA: 1300 726 306 - Perinatal mental health support
  • Butterfly Foundation: 1800 334 673 - Eating disorders support

LGBTQ+ Mental Health

  • QLife: 1800 184 527 - Anonymous LGBTQ+ counseling and referrals
  • ACON Health: acon.org.au - LGBTQ+ health services (NSW)
  • Thorne Harbour Health: thorneharbour.org - LGBTQ+ health (Victoria)
  • True Rainbow: truerainbow.org.au - LGBTQ+ mental health resources

Online Mental Health Services

  • Head to Health: headtohealth.gov.au - Government digital mental health platform
  • MindSpot: mindspot.org.au - Free online mental health assessments and treatment
  • This Way Up: thiswayup.org.au - Online mental health courses and programs
  • ReachOut: au.reachout.com - Youth mental health support and resources

Professional Treatment Finding

  • Australian Psychological Society: psychology.org.au - Find a psychologist directory
  • Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists: ranzcp.org - Find a psychiatrist
  • Psychology Today Australia: psychologytoday.com/au - Therapist directory with specializations
  • Better Health Channel: betterhealth.vic.gov.au - Government health information and services

💡 Your Personal Mental Health Action Plan

Immediate Assessment (Complete Today)

  1. Mental Health Check-in

    Rate your current mental health (1-10): ____
    How long have you felt this way? ____
    What's your biggest mental health concern? ____
    Do you have anyone to talk to about this? ____
    When did you last prioritize your mental wellbeing? ____
  2. Risk Assessment

    • Are you having thoughts of self-harm or suicide? If yes, call 13 11 14 now
    • Are you using substances to cope with emotions?
    • Has your daily functioning been significantly impacted?
    • Are you experiencing panic attacks or severe anxiety?

30-Day Mental Health Challenge

Week 1: Foundation Building

  • Complete mental health screening online (headtohealth.gov.au)
  • Download mood tracking app and use daily
  • Schedule GP appointment for mental health discussion
  • Identify 3 people in your support network
  • Start 10-minute daily mindfulness practice

Week 2: Professional Support

  • Book appointment with counselor or psychologist
  • Research local support groups for your concerns
  • Complete sleep hygiene assessment and improvements
  • Begin regular exercise routine (even 15 minutes walking)
  • Limit social media to 30 minutes per day

Week 3: Skill Building

  • Learn and practice one new coping strategy daily
  • Join online mental health community or forum
  • Practice assertiveness in one challenging situation
  • Complete values clarification exercise
  • Start gratitude journaling (3 items daily)

Week 4: Integration and Planning

  • Review progress and adjust strategies
  • Create mental health crisis plan with support network
  • Schedule regular mental health maintenance activities
  • Connect with others who might need support
  • Plan ongoing professional support if needed

Long-Term Mental Health Investment

Monthly Mental Health Practices:

  • Professional therapy or counseling sessions
  • Mental health check-up with GP
  • Participation in support group or community
  • Review and update mental health goals
  • Assess medication effectiveness with psychiatrist (if applicable)

Quarterly Wellbeing Review:

  • Comprehensive mental health assessment
  • Review of support network effectiveness
  • Adjustment of treatment plan if needed
  • Celebration of progress and achievements
  • Planning for upcoming challenges or stressors

Remember: Seeking help for mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness. Every Australian woman deserves to feel mentally well, supported, and empowered to live her best life.

Your mental health journey is unique to you, but you don’t have to walk it alone. Professional help, peer support, and evidence-based treatments are available and effective.


This guide provides general mental health information and should not replace professional medical or psychological advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers for personalized mental health care.

Mental Health Crisis Contacts:

  • Emergency: 000
  • Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7)
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (24/7)
  • Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 (24/7)

Last updated: January 2025

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