Wellbeing
Accessing support services
Now and then, we all need a helping hand. Supporting your own mental health and your child’s mental health is an important part of overall wellbeing. Here is a list of some handy support services and resources that may be helpful for families when extra support is needed.
Free Support Services- No referral required
Kids Helpline — Confidential support for young people aged 5–25. Available 24/7- Phone: 1800 55 1800
Maternal & Child Health Line — Advice and support from a Maternal and Child Health nurse for families with children from birth to school age. Available 24/7.Phone: 13 22 29
The Orange Door Croydon — Support for family violence, parenting concerns, and the wellbeing and safety of children and young people.
Phone: 1800 271 150Address: 4–16 Devon St, Croydon
Relationships Australia — Provides family and relationship support.
Phone: 1300 364 277 or visit www.relationshipsvictoria.org.au
Community Support Services (Usually Low cost or free)- Referrals are not normally required, but specific services may require a referral from the Orange Door.
Doncare- Doncaster- Provides counselling for individuals, couples and families, family violence support, and can provide financial assistance and material support in times of need.
Phone: 9856 1500 or visit in person at 1/687 Doncaster Road, Doncaster
EACH (Eastern Access Community Health)-Ringwood -Provides support for children and families through individual and family counselling, support groups and access to healthcare services.
Phone: 9871 1800 or visit in person at 46 Warrandyte Road, Ringwood.
Urgent Care:
Maroondah Medicare Urgent Care Clinic: Provides bulk-billed care for medical issues that need attention sooner than a regular GP appointment but do not require an emergency department visit. No appointment required.
Mountain High Shopping Centre, Shop 30, 7/13, High St, Bayswater
Phone: 3153
Seeing a private psychologist /counsellor: how to get a referral:
- Make an appointment with your GP. When booking, let the clinic know that the appointment is for a Mental Health Care Plan, as a longer appointment may be needed.
- Talk to the GP about your concerns. Explain how you or your child has been feeling and how their mental health is affecting everyday life.
- Ask about seeing a psychologist. The GP will ask some questions about mental health and wellbeing and, if appropriate, develop a Mental Health Care Plan and referral.
- Take the plan to a psychologist. The psychologist can then provide support based on your or your child’s needs.
- Medicare rebates: Some private psychologists may see you without a referral. However, if you would like to access a Medicare rebate for eligible psychology services, a Mental Health Care Plan is generally required.
Warmly,
Hannah Jenkins
Student Support and Wellbeing Officer
Please get in touch should you have any questions related to student wellbeing, my email is Hannah.Jenkins@education.vic.gov.au