There’s no doubt about it, these are difficult times and it’s not easy knowing where to turn when the chips are down.

COVID-19 has placed an incredible burden on people from all walks of life and for many people working in horticulture. With the impact of labour shortages, natural disasters and interruptions to trade, not to mention the implications of the Qfly outbreak, stress is at an all-time high.

If you're finding that your usual coping mechanisms are not working, it’s time to reach out for help.

Late last year we saw a big win for mental health: mental health sessions subsidised by Medicare were doubling, from 10 to 20 per calendar year, until 30 June 2022.

That’s for in-person sessions.

The subsidised mental health session could be with a GP, psychologist, psychiatrist, eligible social worker or occupational therapist.

Usually, you only have 10 sessions per calendar year (from 1 January to 31 December), but the new scheme allows you to carry your additional sessions into the next calendar year.

If you're starting from scratch with all this, head to your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP).

Initially you can only be referred for a maximum of six sessions. After that you'll have to go back to your GP who can extend your referral for more, if you need it.

Some services will bulk bill, and cover the whole cost of the appointment, but for others you'll have to pay the difference between the rebate and session's full price.

The first step is to connect with your doctor. When you make the booking, ask if a long appointment is available — 20 minutes or more.

Your doctor might ask you some personal questions to understand your situation.

You might also be asked to fill out a questionnaire about how you are feeling.

Talking to the doctor and answering the survey, can help the doctor to find the best support for you.

Sometimes it can be hard to talk to others about your mental health, so you can take a family member or close friend along for support; they can also help explain your situation to the doctor, and they can help remember the discussions you had.

You doctor will then be able to consider your needs and circumstances.

Your doctor can refer you to mental health professionals including:

• psychiatrists

• psychologists

• counsellors

• social workers

• occupational therapists.

If you live in a remote area, it might be hard to see a mental health professional.

You may be able to have a telehealth video consultation instead.

You can claim for video consultation sessions with a mental health professional.

Ask your GP or mental health professional if they offer this service.

You can also search the find a health service tool on the healthdirect website for mental health telehealth services.