How can Psychology help me?
The incredible cost of ignoring mental health issues is has become only more apparent to Australia and the wider world only recently. In 2022, the Australian Government released a report with some worrying findings:
- 1 in 5 Australian adults and 1 in 7 children and adolescents have experienced a mental health disorder
- 5% of people suffer from severe mental illnesses
- Over 4.5 million people have filled out a mental health related prescription since 2020
Concerns about mental health in the young Aussie population are rising too, with young women being twice as likely to be dealing with mental health problems. It is impossible to emphasise how vital it is to seek help if you need it.
What’s the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
| What is a psychiatrist? | What is a psychologist? |
| Obtains an MD after 4 years of medical school, then goes on to specialize in psychiatry | May have a PhD or a degree in Psychology, and training in either clinical or research psychology |
| Can prescribe medicine to treat patients | Does not use medication to treat mental illness – counselling, therapy, etc are the treatment options |
| Trained to diagnose and treat mental disorders | Trained to conduct assessments, research, or therapy |
| Focuses on health background, biology, medical problems causing the mental problems | Focuses on current behaviour |
| Treats severe conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder | Treats conditions like addiction, anxiety, and depression |
It can be confusing – should I be looking for a psychiatrist near me or a psychologist? Here’s how to figure it out: If you or someone you know needs medication to regulate a mental disorder, a psychiatrist is the right choice. However, if you need counselling or psychotherapy, you should find a psychologist. With Avaana, it is easy to find an in-person or online psychologist near you.
Psychologists cover mental disorders that may be treated with counselling or talk therapy, including:
- Addiction
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
A psychologist may also provide therapy for relationship or family problems, career worries, grief and bereavement, or other concerns caused by external factors.
The stigma of mental illness
The stigma around mental illness leads to discrimination for the affected person, and sometimes even for their family and loved ones. This prevents people from seeking effective treatment and care. However in recent years, the discourse around mental health conditions has started to become more accepted. You might like to book an online psychologist in Australia if you are unsure of a face-to-face visit.
Deciding on the right time to find a psychologist near me
To get the most out of your sessions with a psychologist, it is important that you schedule a session when you first notice problems. When you find yourself wondering, “should I look for a psychologist near me now?” – it is the right time to schedule your first consultation.
If you know you need pharmaceutical treatment for your condition or have been prescribed a course of drugs, you should be saying “I need to get to a psychiatrist near me right now!” Your mental health affects everything you do and should be a priority above all else.
Booking an online psychologist in Australia
When it comes to finding an online psychologist, Australia has plenty of options. This might even be a preferred option for many people who are considering booking their first session and do not want anyone to know. Booking eTherapy or a session with an online psychologist in Australia is easy – just let Avaana guide you through the process!
