Support for general practice staff during COVID-19

GPs and practice staff have experienced unprecedented demand and pressure during this pandemic. The recent lockdown in Brisbane and surrounds is a timely reminder for general practice staff to look after themselves and reach out if they need extra support.

There are a range of free and accessible options available to general practice staff and GPs to help alleviate distress due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Available to all staff and the general public through self-referral

NewAccess is a free and confidential support service for people who may be feeling down or overwhelmed and are seeking support to manage the stressors of daily life. Provided by Richmond Fellowship Qld (RFQ), NewAccess provides six free sessions with a specially trained Coach. Sessions are offered via phone or video conferencing.

Available to general practitioners only

DRS4DRS is an independent program providing confidential support and resources to doctors and medical students across Australia. The DRS4DRS website provides coordinated access to mental health and wellbeing resources, training on becoming a doctor for doctors, community news and navigation to each state/territory helpline and referral services. Confidential phone advice is available 24/7 for any doctor or medical student in Australia.

The RACGP GP Support Program offers free, confidential specialist advice to help cope with professional and personal stressors impacting areas such as mental health and wellbeing, work performance and personal relationships. The service is available to all RACGP members who are registered medical practitioners.

Not sure where to start?

Head to the National Head to Health website for information, advice and free or low-cost phone and online mental health services and supports. The My Mental Health website also offers support for community and health professionals to connect to services in the North Brisbane and Moreton Bay region.