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How can women access tailored mental health support? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

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  SPEAKER_00: How can women access tailored mental health support?
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  SPEAKER_00: Women can access tailored mental health support through a range of services that recognise the unique biological, psychological and social factors that can affect women's mental health.
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  SPEAKER_00: The right support depends on an individual's preference and needs and circumstances.
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  SPEAKER_00: A GP is often the first point of contact.
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  SPEAKER_00: They can assess your mental health, discuss treatment options, refer you for talking therapies or specialist services, prescribe medication if appropriate, or signpost you to local support groups and community services.
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  SPEAKER_00: Many women benefit from counselling or psychotherapy.
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  SPEAKER_00: Join women's support groups if available.
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  SPEAKER_00: These can reduce isolation and provide a safe environment to share experiences.
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  SPEAKER_00: Groups may focus on perenatal mental health, menopause, grief and loss, survivors of abuse, single parenting, chronic illness, stress and burnout.
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  SPEAKER_00: Some organisations offer support designed specifically for women, including domestic abuse services, sexual assault support services, women's well-being centres, community mental health projects for women.
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  SPEAKER_00: These services are often provide counselling alongside practical advice, advocacy and emotional support.
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  SPEAKER_00: If you're employed, you may be able to access an employee assistance program, occupational health services, mental health first aiders, flexible working arrangements to support your well-being, alongside professional help, everyday habits can support mental health, well-being such as prioritising sleep, staying physically active, eating balanced meals, maintaining supportive relationships, setting healthy boundaries, practicing relaxation or mindfulness, and importantly making time for enjoyable activities.
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  SPEAKER_00: Remember, mental health support is not one size fits all.
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  SPEAKER_00: Women may face challenges linked to hormonal changes, caregiving responsibilities, trauma, discrimination, work-life balance or life transitions.
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  SPEAKER_00: Tailored support acknowledges these experiences and provides care that is compassionate, evidence based and responsive to individual needs.
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  SPEAKER_00: Seeking support early can make a recovery easier and help prevent difficulties from becoming more severe.
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  SPEAKER_00: If you are thinking of harming yourself or feel unsafe, please call your local emergency number or crisis line.