November, 2018
Up to two-thirds of all people living with arthritis say their condition has affected their mental health negatively. Thankfully,
there are variety of dedicated health professionals available and systems in place to help you get quick and affordable mental healthcare.
Better Access Mental Health Care Plans, or simply Mental Health Care Plans, are available to anyone who is struggling with their mental
health. Organised by your GP, Mental Health Care Plans allow you to see health professionals including psychologists and counsellors
up to 10 times per year. An added benefit of these plans is that you are also able to claim some of the costs of seeing these health
professionals back through Medicare, saving you some money.
For more detailed information on Mental Health Care Plans, visit the Department
of Health's website
Tip: If you are interested in seeing your GP about the possibility of getting a Mental Health Care Plan, make sure to book a
longer appointment, or let the receptionist know this is what you are after, as your GP may need a bit of extra time.
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health concerns please contact: Lifeline: 13 11 14 www.lifeline.com or
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 www.beyondblue.org.au