Researchers say a new website offering Internet counselling for mental health problems can be as effective as face-to-face therapy with a psychologist.
The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has created a website to offer free online help for people in rural and remote areas who may have difficulty accessing other services.
Psychologist Jennifer Connolly says the stigma around mental illness is still an issue for some people but the Internet program offers convenient access to treatment from home.
"Our particular website is focusing on offering 'right now' information and treatment programs for people who have depression and who want to cut back on their drinking," she said.
"But we will be expanding the site over coming months and years even to add more programs for a wider range of problems.
"For example we'll soon be launching a program for people who care for people with a mental illness."
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Australia expanding Internet psychological counseling for those with mental health needs
From ABC News in Australia:
