Celebrating World Family Doctor Day 2025: Our Bondi doctors and GP team support Mental Wellness in Bondi
Monday 19 May 2025 marks World Family Doctor Day, a global celebration of the essential work family doctors do to care for their communities. This year’s theme highlights a topic more relevant than ever — the vital role family doctors play in supporting mental wellness.
At our Ocean Medical, your local Bondi Medical Centre on Bondi Road, our team of Bondi GPs and doctors are proud to provide compassionate, comprehensive mental health care to patients of all ages — from early screening and prevention to managing ongoing mental health conditions.
The Role of GPs in Mental Wellness
General practitioners (GPs) are often the first point of contact for people experiencing mental health concerns. At our Bondi medical centre on Bondi rd, our experienced Bondi doctors are trained to identify the early signs of depression, anxiety, stress-related conditions, and other mental health challenges. We work closely with psychologists, psychiatrists, and mental health nurses to provide a holistic, team-based approach.
In many cases, a GP may:
- Conduct initial mental health assessments
- Provide counselling and lifestyle advice
- Prescribe appropriate medications if required
- Refer patients to mental health professionals under a Mental Health Care Plan (eligible for Medicare rebates)
- Monitor and support patients through their recovery journey
Our goal is to ensure every member of the Bondi community receives personalised, evidence-based mental health support in a safe and supportive environment.
Mental Health in Australia: Key Statistics
Mental health is a growing concern in Australia, particularly among working adults, parents, and older residents. According to recent data:
- 1 in 5 Australians experience a mental illness every year.
- Women are more likely to report anxiety and depression, while men are more likely to suffer in silence, leading to underdiagnosis.
- About 17% of Australians aged 16–85 have experienced anxiety disorders, and 8.6% have experienced affective disorders (e.g. depression).
- Rates of psychological distress are increasing in young adults, particularly in urban areas like Bondi.
Are You at Risk? Community Tools for Mental Health Awareness
Understanding your mental wellbeing starts with self-awareness. We recommend these easy-to-use mental health screening tools:
- K10 (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale): A 10-question survey to measure psychological distress.
- DASS-21 (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale): Measures symptoms over the past week, giving a clearer picture of your current emotional state.
- Beyond Blue’s Mental Health Check-In: A user-friendly questionnaire with instant feedback and helpful resources.
These tools are not diagnostic but can help identify when it’s time to seek support from a Bondi GP or mental health professional.
Mental Health Emergencies: Resources and Safety
If you or someone you love is experiencing a mental health crisis, immediate help is available. Here are some key support options:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 — 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention
- Mental Health Line (NSW Health): 1800 011 511
- Beyond Blue: www.beyondblue.org.au
- Head to Health: www.headtohealth.gov.au
In an emergency, always dial 000 or visit your nearest hospital emergency department.
Our Bondi doctors & GP team are available to provide follow-up care and mental health planning post-crisis.
The Growing Role of General Practice in Mental Health
Mental health is now a core part of general practice in Australia. At our Medical Centre on Bondi Road, we have seen a growing number of patients seeking mental health support. GPs are ideally placed to:
- Detect issues early
- Build trust and continuity of care
- Coordinate with allied health professionals
- Offer both physical and mental health care in one location
We believe that addressing mental health is just as important as treating physical health — and we are here to support our Bondi community every step of the way.
Mental Health Screening and Care in Bondi
At our Bondi Medical Centre GP clinic, we offer:
- Mental health check-ups
- Medicare-subsidised Mental Health Care Plans
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) referrals
- Referrals for lifestyle coaching for mood improvement
- On-site or referred psychological support
- Chronic disease mental health support (e.g. for diabetes, heart disease)
We also work with Bondi-based psychologists and psychiatrists to provide a connected, collaborative care experience.
Simple Lifestyle Measures to Support Mental Health
Families in Bondi can take everyday steps to improve their mental wellbeing:
- Exercise regularly: Walks along Bondi Beach or yoga in the park reduce stress and boost mood.
- Stay connected: Social isolation can increase depression and anxiety — connect with friends, family, or community groups.
- Eat well: A Mediterranean-style diet rich in omega-3, whole grains, and leafy greens supports brain health.
- Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours per night with good sleep hygiene.
- Digital detox: Reducing screen time, especially at night, helps reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
- Mindfulness and meditation: These help manage anxiety and improve emotional resilience.
We’re Here for You — Even on Saturdays
To better serve our community, our Medical Centre on Bondi Road is now open on Saturdays. We understand life gets busy, and accessing healthcare during the week can be tough. Saturday clinics provide more flexibility for working individuals, families, and students seeking physical or mental health support.
Your Mental Wellness Matters — Visit Our Bondi rd doctors & GP team Today
This World Family Doctor Day, we celebrate the ongoing dedication of GPs in improving not just physical, but emotional wellbeing. If you or someone you care about is struggling, our Bondi doctors and GPs are ready to listen, support, and help guide you to better mental health.
Book an appointment today at our Medical Centre on Bondi Road and take the first step towards better mental health.
