Message from Chair

Hello from the General Practice Mental Health Standards Collaboration (GPMHSC), and welcome to the autumn edition of our newsletter.

As 2024 continues, it’s imperative to acknowledge the significant impact mental health is having on all Australians. Whilst the COVID-19 pandemic is behind us, we acknowledge that it has exacerbated existing mental health challenges, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression among individuals across the country. Isolation, financial strain, and uncertainty have taken a toll on the mental well-being of many Australians, highlighting the need for easy access to primary care to provide support.

However, Australian GPs are facing burnout from increasing patient demand, and we encourage all GPs to stop and take a breath. GP selfcare is paramount, because without GPs the entire mental health care system will suffer. Support is available through the RACGP GP Support Program and DRS4DRS, as well as other resources found here, and at Lifeline on 13 11 14.

The GPMHSC will continue to advocate for GPs, including for adequate funding and resources to support GP practices, as well as initiatives to address workforce challenges such as recruitment and retention.

Assoc Prof Morton Rawlin
Chair, GPMHSC