On April 5th, Libby and Nick participated in a valuable professional development workshop by Dr. Susan Barnett from the Black Dog Institute, focusing on managing depression in rural Australia.
PD Recap: Depression in Rural Australia
On April 5th, Libby and Nick participated in a valuable professional development workshop by Dr. Susan Barnett from the Black Dog Institute, focusing on managing depression in rural Australia. Dr. Barnett, a GP and counsellor, equipped us with practical tools and resources for immediate use in our clinic. The session covered various mental health conditions, effective interventions including pharmacological options (SSRIs, SNRIs, Tricyclic Antidepressants), and the roles of different therapy services (counseling, psychology, psychiatry) and allied health professionals (physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, occupational therapists).
A key takeaway was the significant benefit of exercise in treating depression, often underemphasized, yet shown to match or exceed the effectiveness of antidepressants. For those unsure where to start their exercise regimen, Comet Healthcare is here to help guide you.
Mental health can also lead to financial strain, but there are cost-free strategies that can alleviate symptoms:
- Enhancing sleep hygiene
- Regular physical activity
- Reducing alcohol and substance use
- Practicing mindfulness and journaling
- Eating a balanced diet with limited processed foods
Dr. Dan Siegel’s “Healthy Mind Platter” was another highlight, illustrating seven vital mental activities for a healthy mind:
- Focus Time: Engaging deeply with tasks to challenge the brain.
- Play Time: Embracing spontaneity and creativity.
- Connecting Time: Building social bonds and appreciating nature.
- Physical Time: Keeping physically active.
- Time In: Reflecting internally to integrate the brain.
- Downtime: Allowing the mind to wander and relax.
- Sleep Time: Ensuring adequate rest for brain health.
For further information on mental health strategies and the benefits of a balanced mental diet, visit the Black Dog Institute and Dr. Dan Siegel’s websites provided below:
- https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/
- https://drdansiegel.com/healthy-mind-platter/