We often think about digital mental health resources as tools to support clients or patients during treatment or as self-help resources. However, digital mental health resources are also available to support health professionals.
Health professionals and first responders face many challenges that can impact their mental health or challenge existing mental health problems. From balancing difficult workloads and role ambiguity to exposure to traumatic experiences in the workplace, the intense situational and interpersonal events can impact health professionals’ mental wellbeing.
Digital mental health interventions can help health professionals manage their mental health by providing information, phone and online counselling, apps and online treatment programs. Whether used in addition to workplace resources or independently, digital mental health tools offer an effective and convenient option for busy health professionals.
Drs4Drs
1300 374 377
Independent, supportive, confidential referral and mental health telehealth service promoting the health and wellbeing of doctors and medical students. Developed by medical professionals for medical professionals, connecting them to online resources, referral services, and confidential telephone support.
CRANAplus
1800 805 391
Tools to support the mental health of remote and rural health workers including nurses, midwives and other health professionals to deliver safe, high quality primary healthcare to remote and isolated areas of Australia. They provide and maintain a “Bush Support Line” for the rural and remote health workforce, providing free, confidential, 24/7 phone support with an experienced psychologist.
Australasian Doctor’s Health Network
Phone advocacy and referral service manned by doctors to assist doctors who are concerned about a colleague or their own wellbeing. Online screening tools with links to other supports. Visit the website for state specific phone services.
The Essential Network (TEN)
https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/the-essential-network/
Quick, easy and confidential support for health professionals, designed by health professionals. The TEN app was developed by Black Dog Institute to connect health professionals to evidence-based tools, resources, programs and specialists. It includes mental health screening tools, self-assessment, self-management tools and person-to-person support to help health professionals and frontline workers optimise their mental health.
Peak Fortem
https://peakfortem.fortemaustralia.org.au/
Support for the mental health and wellbeing of first responders and their families providing practical lifestyle tools to maintain mental fitness. Information and tools are grouped into four categories; control, motivate, boost, and balance to promote mental fitness, increase performance and improve wellbeing.
For more information and resources download our factsheet ‘Managing the Mental Health of Health Professionals‘
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