Three pillars of professional mental health support

TRIGGER WARNING:

This story contains themes of trauma, mental health issues and suicide which may be triggering for some readers. If you or someone you know needs crisis support call Lifeline 13 11 14.

As Police officers, you know all to well that the demands and challenges of the job, while rewarding, also take a toll on your mental health.

Even the most resilient of minds will likely experience mental health challenges at some point or another, given the unique mix of stress, hypervigilance and regular exposure to traumatic situations that can come with the job.

Accepting this without judgement, recognising warning signs, and understanding when and where to seek professional support (for yourself or to aid a colleague), is key to proactively protecting yourself and loved ones.

There are a range of mental health professionals available to help, depending on your situation.

SO WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THESE THREE?

1. Counsellors

Counsellors may help individuals, couples or families cope with stressful life situations arising out of normal developmental changes. They may work in a variety of settings, such as private practices, schools and workplaces, or community agencies.

They also provide therapy and support to those who are dealing with a wide range of emotional and psychological issues.

2. Psychologists diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. They can provide therapy, prescribe medication, and work with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment.

A Psychologist can help you to improve work-related issues, such as stress and burnout, by providing you with strategies to manage stress and improve overall wellbeing.

These can include exercises, medication, general medical care, including checking your physical health and the effects of medication, and psychological treatments.

Eligible Police Health members can claim* generous benefits towards consults with all these professionals, with your choice of provider, but GPs can also provide referrals through mental healthcare plans. So help is readily at hand.

* T&C’s apply. To receive Police Health benefits, counsellors must be accredited with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). Police Health’s Psychology and Counselling benefits are available through Extras cover, while psychiatrist benefits are available through Hospital cover as an in-patient. Waiting periods and other conditions apply - please call 1800 603 603 for further details.

Three of the most helpful health professionals available are Counsellors, Psychologists and Psychiatrists. These professionals provide a safe and confidential space to talk about your experiences and develop a treatment plan.

This can be especially helpful if you are dealing with difficult or traumatic experiences, or if you are struggling to cope with ongoing stress and anxiety.

By talking through your thoughts and feelings with a trained professional, you can gain a better understanding of your own mental health and learn new coping strategies to help you manage your symptoms.

They’ll also help in addressing depression, anxiety, relationships, behavioural issues and substance abuse.

3. Psychiatrists

Alternatively, a Psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in the

With the right support, understanding, and care, anyone can learn to prioritise their mental health, and in doing so, open the door to a happier and more fulfilling life.

If you or someone you know needs crisis support call Lifeline 13 11 14.

Police Health Benefits At A Glance

ROLLING

Extras

Police Health’s Rolling Extras cover includes a combined annual maximum benefit of $850 per person for Psychology and Counselling, and a combined Rollover Maximum of $1,700. A 2 month waiting period applies.*

GOLD HOSPITAL

Police Health’s gold Hospital cover includes hospital in-patient psychiatric services for the treatment and care of patients with psychiatric, mental, addiction or behavioural disorders. For example: psychoses such as schizophrenia, mood disorders such as depression, eating disorders and addiction therapy. Psychiatric care is excluded from the usual 12 month waiting period for Hospital cover.*

Fleet Network helps WA Police members drive their way to savings

Henry Robson has been employed with WA Police for nine years as a Patrol/Inquiry Officer in the Central Regional Operations Group. The first time he heard about Fleet Network was through a friend at work. Although he was already in a novated lease agreement, the customer service from his provider at the time was not hitting the mark. Since Henry had difficulty contacting his provider directly to order his next car, he began exploring his options for his next lease.

A 4-hour response promise and exceptional customer ser vice impressed Henry immediately. Setting up a lease was straightforward and easy, with a team at his disposal ready to answer any questions.

“Having people who were responsive and available, and who I could speak with directly, made the whole process very painless”, said Henry.

Henry’s new novated lease with Fleet Network coincided with his return to Perth. Since he had been working regionally for the last several years, he was looking for a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle for his significant daily commute. Henry landed on a 2022 Hyundai i30 N Line – and he was delighted with his purchase!

“This model was a compromise with the wife as I wanted their N Performance model, but it was a bit pricey. The N Line is a quick little car with a heap of clever features and was a really good price.” g t ork an others or upgrade

Henry enjoys his daily commute in the N Line after switching to Fleet Network and setting up a novated lease. He suggests that others consider Fleet Network for their next vehicle or upgrade.