Mental Health

Women’s Mental Health

Mental health conditions are more common than you think

Chances are, you or someone you know has experienced a mental health challenge at some point. From anxiety and depression to more complex disorders like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, mental health issues are prevalent and can impact anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. The GPs in our clinic take a compassionate approach to supporting you with mental health services.

We can help you access mental health support and treatments.

Common mental health conditions

Depression

Depression is a common and serious mental health condition characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities.

It can affect your thoughts, behaviour, and overall well-being, making it difficult to function day to day. People with depression may experience changes in sleep patterns, appetite, energy levels, and concentration.

Anxiety

 Anxiety is a mental health condition that involves excessive, uncontrollable worry and fear about everyday situations. It can manifest as physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, dizziness, and emotional symptoms like restlessness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Reaching out for support is important to manage anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

Support for common women’s mental health conditions

Women can experience a range of specific mental health conditions that come with changes in our reproductive hormones.

Postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is a serious condition that can occur after childbirth, characterised by intense feelings of sadness, fatigue, and anxiety.

New mothers may experience overwhelming emotions, difficulty bonding with their baby, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns. 

Postpartum anxiety

Postpartum anxiety involves excessive worry and fear and can occur after childbirth. New mothers may feel constantly anxious about their baby’s health, their ability to care for their child, or other aspects of motherhood.

Symptoms include restlessness, irritability, and physical symptoms such as a racing heart or dizziness. 

Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe mental health condition that can occur after childbirth. It is characterised by hallucinations, delusions, extreme mood swings, and confusion. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a variety of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days or weeks before menstruation. Common symptoms include breast tenderness, mood swings, irritability, and fatigue. PMS symptoms vary in intensity for different individuals.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS that significantly impacts daily life. Symptoms include severe mood swings, depression, irritability, and anxiety, as well as physical symptoms like bloating and breast tenderness. 

Eating disorders

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterised by unhealthy eating behaviours and a distorted body image. Common types include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Symptoms can include extreme food restriction, binge eating, purging behaviours, and an intense fear of gaining weight.

Mental Health Care Plans

Mental Health Care Plans are designed to provide individuals with the support and resources to manage their mental health. These plans are developed in consultation with a GP, who will assess your mental health needs and create a tailored treatment plan. 

A Mental Health Care Plan plan typically includes a referral to a psychologist or other mental health professional. It provides access to Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year with a mental health practitioner. This initiative aims to make mental health care more accessible and affordable, ensuring you receive the necessary support to improve your mental well-being. 

If you, or someone you know, needs help now, you can call triple zero (000) for emergencies or Lifeline on 13 11 14 — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Why women in Brisbane choose us

Longer appointments
All female GPs
A whole-person approach to your well-being
Care based on the latest research and information
Calm and convenient clinic
Personal patient-practitioner relationships

Take the first step towards better health

At Sirona Women’s Health, we’re dedicated to providing you with the personalised, high-quality care you deserve. Our experienced all-female clinic is ready to listen, support, and empower you through every stage of your healthcare journey.