FOR ANYONE – ANYWHERE, ANYTIME
If you’re suffering from depression and could do with some help, you may like to know that internet-based therapy has proved to be as successful as face-to-face treatment for combating depression – and it works better than drug therapy.
Psychiatrist Gavin Andrews from the University of New South Wales, conducted a study that found Internet treatment required less than two hours for a person to gain benefit, compared to an average of 12-15 hours of treatment with a practitioner.
The Impact of Depression:
Most sufferers of anxiety and depression experience debilitating symptoms, but often do not seek formal treatment. Understandably, they may be too fearful or self-conscious to seek counselling.
In the midst of a bout of depression it is difficult for a person to believe that their symptoms, such as anxiety and depression are highly treatable. Most people respond well to treatment.
Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and predicted to become the leading cause of disease globally by 2030, ahead of heart disease.
Advantages of Cybertherapy:
- It’s low cost or free
- You don’t need medication
- Accessible 24/7 for anyone, living anywhere. Ideal for people who live in remote areas who are unable to access services.
- No appointment needed!
- 100% anonymous, private, no embarrassment
- Personalised to suit your needs
- More interactive than reading self-help books, (although reading good quality information about your condition can have a healing effect)
- Solves the problem for people who are agoraphobic, it might be your first opportunity to receive treatment.
Online Support available:
A self-help package for sufferers of anxiety and depression, which was developed by the Australian National University in Canberra. It reduces dysfunctional thinking and helps develop a healthy mind. This programme has proven highly successful over many years and now attracts over 600 visitors a day from 62 countries. Access is available for a small cost.
MoodGYM is in English, and open to the public. It gives people skills everyone can afford it and is accessible even in remote areas, 24/7.
The British Medical Journal evaluated MoodGYM in January 2004, showing that users who accessed the programme weekly ended up with markedly reduced depressive symptoms, which is similar to face-to-face treatment.
What To Do When You Have a Panic Attack
Specific on-the-spot management techniques for panic.
The MHS Network / DepressioNet
depressioNet is an independent resource for information, help and 24-hour peer based support created by Australians from a variety of backgrounds who live with depression.
Beyond Blue provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live.
A personalised self-help tool for mental health.
HELP LINES:
Australia
• Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636
• Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
• Lifeline 13 11 14
NOTE: Getting treatment online may not suit everyone. If you or your loved one is at risk in any way, tell someone, call a help line or see your health professional.
