For people working in health, mental health, government and community sectors

The beyondblue Clinical Practice Guidelines – for adolescents and young people, and women in the perinatal period – draw on the latest high-quality research evidence to provide recommendations and good practice points for health professionals to identify, treat and manage depression, anxiety and related disorders.

The Clinical Practice Guidelines have been compiled by expert advisory groups, including some of Australia's leading mental health experts and people with personal experience of mental health disorders. In February 2011, both guidelines received approval from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

Copies of the Clinical Practice Guidelines are available to
oronline, free of charge, by visiting
www.beyondblue.org.au/guidelines

Summary documents for the guidelines are in development.

To help promote availability of the Clinical Practice Guidelines, please feel welcome to include a copy of this article in your organisation's newsletter or circular.

In response to recent cyclones, floods and bushfires across Australia, beyondblue will be engaging with disaster-affected communities to provide information, support and training during the important phase of recovery. As part of a coordinated Disaster Response Initiative, beyondblue will be working with local and community organisations and health services to distribute information resources and deliver community support training to raise awareness of depression and anxiety, and how to seek help.

Free copies of beyondblue's booklet, Looking after yourself and your family after a disaster
are available to or ( www.beyondblue.org.au/resources
or call 1300 22 4636).

Audio book – Taking care of yourself and your family

Taking Care of Yourself and Your Family is now available in audio format: on CD and in MP3 and DAISY format
(DAISY is an acronym for Digital Accessible Information System and is an audio format which can be used by
people who are blind or vision impaired and have access to a DAISY player).

Taking Care of Yourself and Your Family contains helpful information on a variety of topics including
depression, anxiety, insomnia, anger, stress, alcohol and grief and offers self-help strategies that may assist
people to get through tough times and find the right help.

MP3 (go to www.beyondblue.org.au/takingcarebook)

CD or DAISY format (go to www.beyondblue.org.au/resources )

 

Booklet – The beyondblue Guide for Carers: Supporting and caring for a person with depression, anxiety and/or a related disorder – translated versions

The beyondblue Guide for Carers has been translated into Greek, Italian, Chinese (simplified), Vietnamese, Arabic and Dari. Based on the personal stories of people who care for a person with depression or anxiety, the booklet offers helpful advice and tips on caring for others and caring for yourself.

(go to (www.beyondblue.org.au > click on 'Culturally and linguistically diverse' then select the
relevant language from the side menu)

(go to www.beyondblue.org.au/resources)

 

Flyer – Keeping strong

This flyer for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people provides information on the signs and symptoms of depression, and ways to find help and healing. Developed to support the beyond maturityblues program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, this flyer is also available for use by health professionals, community groups and the general public.

(go to www.beyondblue.org.au > Download information >
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander resources)

(go to www.beyondblue.org.au/resources)

 

beyondblue Fact sheet 48 – Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

This fact sheet provides information on ECT including what it is, when it may be used and associated risks
and side-effects. It's suitable for use by health professionals and people who are seeking more information
on ECT.

(go to www.beyondblue.org.au > Download information > Treatment)

(go to www.beyondblue.org.au/resources > register as an 'Organisation')

 

beyondblue Fact sheet 49 – Serious injury and depression, anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

This fact sheet looks at common types of serious injury, how they are linked to a person's mental health and
advice on recognising the early signs of mental health problems and the treatments that can help.

(go to www.beyondblue.org.au > Download information > Depression and life stages or events)

(go to www.beyondblue.org.au/resources >register as an 'Organisation')

 

Youthbeyondblue fact sheet 24 – Getting help for depression and anxiety –
confidentiality and costs

This fact sheet covers what young people can expect in terms of confidentiality and costs when they see
a health professional for depression/anxiety. It's aimed at young people and suitable for use by health
professionals, teachers, youth workers and others who work with young people.

(go to www.youthbeyondblue.com > Fact sheets and info)

(go to www.beyondblue.org.au/resources > register as an 'Organisation')

 

The Shed Online is a place where men can socialise, network, make friends and share skills. It aims to recreate the atmosphere of a 'real life' Men's Shed – a place where men can gather to discuss and exchange information about their hobbies, interests, health and wellbeing.

With more than 1,000 registered members, The Shed Online aims to foster a sense of community and we're inviting you to join us.

Visit www.theshedonline.org.au to get involved!

Depression and anxiety are common both during pregnancy and after the baby is born,
yet shame or guilt often stops people from talking about how they're feeling. To raise
awareness and reduce stigma, the website www.JustSpeakUp.com.au shares peoples'
personal experiences of pre- and postnatal depression and anxiety, and encourages others
to speak up, reinforcing the message "It's OK to ask for help".

TV presenter and beyondblue Ambassador Jessica Rowe is one of many to share her
inspirational story. Visit www.JustSpeakUp.com.au to find out more.