Thanks
Health Professional
I think that it would be a good idea if you talked with a GP who has experience in working with people who have mental health issues: the beyondblue Web site, http://www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx?, is searchable for such folk.
A experienced GP will be able to draw up a “Mental Health Care Plan” with you. That will entitle you to a number of Medicare-subsidised sessions with mental health professionals (eg, a psychiatrist who can, if indicated, prescribe anti-depressant medication and/or a clinical psychologist who can work with you using non-pharmaceutical approaches - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are often highly effective for people with depression).
As far as your suicidal ideation is concerned, I have been in that dark place, though not recently.
One thing which my clinical psychologist has stressed is that if somebody is experiencing suicidal ideation *and* has worked out a detailed plan/method then the *only* thing that matters is that they are in a safe place.
If that ever applies to you please go *immediately* to A&E of your nearest hospital. There will be health professionals there who can help you.
All the best.
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