Depending on your situation, you can get help from a range of health professionals.
You might need help from a health professional if:
Who can help?
Talk to your doctor
Medication
Complementary medicine and therapies
Help from other organisations
Depending on your situation, you can get help from a range of health professionals, including:
Your doctor might be able to help you, or they may refer you to a health professional with experience in managing anxiety.
You might feel uncomfortable talking to your doctor about your mental health. Here are some helpful tips:
Your doctor can write a mental health treatment plan (previously known as a mental health care plan).
The plan outlines:
Your doctor might include referrals to other services and health professionals, like a psychologist.
The plan gives you a number of sessions with a health professional at a reduced cost (i.e. you can claim your sessions on Medicare).
Sometimes people need to take medication to help manage their anxiety.
There are many different types of medication that can be used. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Some medications are taken daily, and some are taken as needed. Your doctor or psychiatrist will recommend the best option for your symptoms. Note, it can take time to find the right medication and dose for you.
Complementary medicine and therapies might help with your anxiety. You can contact a qualified practitioner for advice. If you do use complementary medicine and therapies, it’s important to share this information with your doctor as some herbal remedies can affect other prescribed medicines.
You can try using herbal remedies to help with your anxiety. Common herbal remedies include kava, chamomile, passionflower, lemon balm and valerian. You can also take supplements such as B vitamins, fish oil and magnesium.
Research about the effectiveness of these herbs and supplements is limited, so talk to a qualified practitioner before you decide.
Massage can be used to promote feelings of relaxation. You can book regular sessions with a trained professional to help manage your anxiety.
Research suggests that some aromatherapy oils such as lavender, bergamot and valerian may help with relaxation. Tell your doctor if you use essential oils as they may affect other medicines.
If you have anxiety, remember you’re not alone. Many organisations have information and programs that can help, including:
Thanks to Liptember Foundation for supporting Jean Hailes to produce these pages on anxiety. Each year, the Liptember Campaign raises funds and awareness for women's mental health during the month of September.
This web page is designed to be informative and educational. It is not intended to provide specific medical advice or replace advice from your health practitioner. The information above is based on current medical knowledge, evidence and practice as at June 2022.