Fantastic post Jane, brave, honest and very well written.
Pleased you have a helpful psychiatrist, and that Australians regardless of income, have access. I am concerned, however, there are some private practitioners profiteering from the government's scheme.
I was referred to a psychologist, even though in a distressed state, the first session was a sales pitch full of false objectives ie career direction should I continue to attend sessions. The sessions did usually last an hour, over time I noticed how differently I was treated as apposed to those handing over $200 and my sessions gradually became ineffectual, the same questions asked. I requested for the career session, you could find better surveys online and did not return.
It was suggested a psychiatrist would be a better alternative. Attended seven sessions, if one lasted 10 minutes I would be surprised, the doctor knows nothing about me and on my fifth change in medication. My bulk billing GP easily could have provided the same treatment, at far less cost to the taxpayer. I have waited an hour once for an appointment, the patient prior was a paying patient.
I am not bipolar so no point asking the medication you have been prescribed. Your description of yourself when on a low is how I have been for 18 months. I do not have children, nor a partner so I am spared the guilt, but at 43 years old live a solitary existence, bankrupt from living on newstart and my rental home of 13 years is up for sale. My only family member, interstate mum of 83 yrs old prevents me from entertaining any thoughts of suicide.
Spiritually I know to look within for my purpose in life. I am content to be alone, loneliness is a state of mind that may be changed, what I can not change is anxiety to work or interact with others.
Thank you for the opportunity and motivation to write on Mental Health Day. Best wishes and lots of healing to you and yours, Suzi
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regna
Being Crazy Jane
Date: 2012-10-10 01:14 am (UTC)Pleased you have a helpful psychiatrist, and that Australians regardless of income, have access. I am concerned, however, there are some private practitioners profiteering from the government's scheme.
I was referred to a psychologist, even though in a distressed state, the first session was a sales pitch full of false objectives ie career direction should I continue to attend sessions. The sessions did usually last an hour, over time I noticed how differently I was treated as apposed to those handing over $200 and my sessions gradually became ineffectual, the same questions asked. I requested for the career session, you could find better surveys online and did not return.
It was suggested a psychiatrist would be a better alternative. Attended seven sessions, if one lasted 10 minutes I would be surprised, the doctor knows nothing about me and on my fifth change in medication. My bulk billing GP easily could have provided the same treatment, at far less cost to the taxpayer. I have waited an hour once for an appointment, the patient prior was a paying patient.
I am not bipolar so no point asking the medication you have been prescribed. Your description of yourself when on a low is how I have been for 18 months. I do not have children, nor a partner so I am spared the guilt, but at 43 years old live a solitary existence, bankrupt from living on newstart and my rental home of 13 years is up for sale. My only family member, interstate mum of 83 yrs old prevents me from entertaining any thoughts of suicide.
Spiritually I know to look within for my purpose in life. I am content to be alone, loneliness is a state of mind that may be changed, what I can not change is anxiety to work or interact with others.
Thank you for the opportunity and motivation to write on Mental Health Day. Best wishes and lots of healing to you and yours, Suzi