Therapy Near Me Mental Health Articles

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) represents a pivotal shift in providing support and services to Australians living with a permanent and significant disability. It aims to foster independence, community participation, and wellbeing. For those living with anxiety disorders, which can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life, the question of whether treatment is covered under the NDIS is of paramount importance. This article delves into the coverage of anxiety treatment under the NDIS, supported by current policies and psychological research.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in Australia, characterised by persistent, excessive worry that affects everyday activities. They can include generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder, among others. The impact of these disorders can be profound, affecting social interactions, employment, and overall wellbeing (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2007).

The NDIS provides support to individuals with a permanent and significant disability, which includes a range of psychosocial disabilities. Psychosocial disability is a term used by the NDIS to describe the functional impairment that may arise from mental health conditions, including severe anxiety disorders. For anxiety treatment to be covered, the condition must cause significant functional impairment in daily living and be likely to be permanent (National Disability Insurance Agency, 2020).

The NDIS covers treatments and supports that are deemed reasonable and necessary to help participants achieve their goals, increase their independence, and participate in the community and employment. For those with anxiety disorders, this can include:

• Therapeutic Supports: Psychological interventions such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which has been widely researched and proven effective for treating anxiety disorders (Hofmann, S.G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I.J.J., Sawyer, A.T., & Fang, A., 2012, JAMA).
• Capacity Building Supports: This includes supports that help build skills and independence, such as social skills training, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with social anxiety disorder.
• Support Coordination: Assistance in managing and coordinating services and supports for individuals with complex needs.

It is important to note that the NDIS does not cover clinical services that are the responsibility of the health system, such as medication or hospital-based services. However, it complements these services by funding supports that assist with daily living and achieving broader life goals.

Individuals seeking NDIS support for anxiety disorders must provide evidence of their condition’s permanency and impact on their functional capacity. This typically involves reports and assessments from qualified mental health professionals. Once accepted, participants work with NDIS planners to develop a personalised plan that includes supports tailored to their specific needs and goals.

For Australians living with severe anxiety disorders that significantly impact their daily lives, the NDIS can provide crucial support to improve their independence, participation, and wellbeing. By covering evidence-based treatments and capacity-building supports, the NDIS acknowledges the profound impact that anxiety disorders can have on individuals’ lives and offers a pathway to greater autonomy and quality of life.

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• Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2007). National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing: Summary of Results.
• National Disability Insurance Agency. (2020). Understanding Psychosocial Disability.
• Hofmann, S.G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I.J.J., Sawyer, A.T., & Fang, A. (2012). The Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Review of Meta-analyses. JAMA.

How to get in touch

If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.