So what exactly is psychology?

We talk about it casually, and you’ve no doubt seen Hollywood’s take on it – One Flew Over the Cookoo’s Nest, Good Will Hunting, and Silver Linings Playbook to name just a few. But what is psychology? And how does it relate to us?

Simply put, psychology aims to help people and communities lead healthier, happier and more meaningful lives.

You may have grown up in a time when psychologists were a rare commodity. Popular imagery had them working in hospitals alongside people with severe mental illness, or listening for months – years even – to worried people as they reclined on a couch. It wasn’t a profession that seemed to touch ‘normal’ lives, or impact on how most people lived.

Today this has changed. We commonly discuss our levels of stress. We worry about how much sleep we are getting and research ways to improve it. We understand that our personal and professional lives are linked, and that trouble in one area can impact on our mood and ability in another. It could also be argued that we have higher expectations for our health and happiness than previous generations. We strive for ‘more’ rather then settling for ‘less’.

As a result awareness of psychology is growing and its use is far broader than you may think. Thinking about your own life you might find that:

• Your workplace has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides short-term access to a psychologist for work and personal matters.
• Your child’s school has a visiting psychologist.
• The family GP now has a psychological service located in their premises.
• A family member has sought out relationship counselling when their marriage hit a rough spot.
• A friend or neighbour tells you they rang a helpline when they were down.
• Your bookshelf holds self-help books and your Facebook feed includes research into happiness.

Despite this increased access, you may be unsure what difference a psychologist can make in your life. Or you may worry that you’re not ‘unwell’ enough to reach out for help in the first place. Having a good understanding of what you can expect will help you make this decision.

These days psychologists tend to work in a more collaborative, solution-focused manner. They often work within a three-session EAP service or a 10-session Medicare funded program. This keeps the focus on ways to improve your current health and quality of life.

Are you having trouble controlling your anger or keeping your mood stable? Do you feel a growing sense of dread about the future? A psychologist will have a range of techniques and strategies you can try, and they will work with you in a therapeutic partnership to find the right approach.

Having the time to explore the influences of your childhood, and having a very formal relationship with a psychologist is far less common.

Of course, it is important to find the right psychologist for you. One who you trust enough to be open and honest. Someone whose communication style and approach matches your needs and goals. It may not be the first psychologist or counsellor you talk to, so it is important to ask for another referral if you are not satisfied.

If you feel like something is not quite right, or have questions about psychology or mental illness, the SANE Help Centre’s advisors are mental health professionals who can help you explore your options.... Call 1800 18 SANE (7263) for a free and confidential discussion about the options and services available to you.

For more information on mental health, mental illness and treatment, visit the Facts & Guides page.