Focused Psychological Strategies (FPS) in the Australian context refer to specific, evidence-based mental health care management techniques derived from psychological therapies. These strategies are designed to assist patients in managing mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress.

FPS are implemented by general practitioners (GPs) and allied health professionals who have received specialized training. The goal of FPS is to provide structured, short-term psychological interventions that can be easily integrated into primary care settings. Techniques commonly used include:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A form of therapy that helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
   1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a structured, short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy that focuses on the interconnection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By identifying and challenging dysfunctional thinking patterns, CBT helps patients develop healthier cognitive and behavioral responses. This therapy is effective for a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and phobias, and often involves homework assignments to practice new skills outside of sessions
2. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication patterns.
   1. Interpersonal Therapy is a time-limited treatment that focuses on the patient's interpersonal relationships and social functioning. The goal is to improve communication skills and increase social support, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions. IPT targets specific problem areas, such as unresolved grief, role transitions, role disputes, and interpersonal deficits
3. Psycho-education: Provides patients with information about their mental health condition and strategies to manage it.
   1. Psycho-education involves educating patients about their mental health conditions and the strategies available to manage them. This approach empowers patients by providing knowledge about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for their condition. It often includes teaching coping mechanisms, stress management techniques, and problem-solving skills. Psycho-education can be delivered in individual or group settings and is often a component of other therapeutic interventions
4. Motivational Interviewing: Aims to enhance a patient's motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence.
   1. Motivational Interviewing is a client-centered, directive method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. It involves open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations to help patients articulate their goals and the reasons for change. This technique is particularly effective for addressing addictive behaviors, as it encourages patients to identify and overcome their own barriers to change
5. Relaxation Techniques: Includes methods such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness.
   1. Relaxation techniques are strategies used to reduce stress and promote a state of calm. Common methods include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and mindfulness meditation. These techniques can help lower physiological arousal associated with stress and anxiety, improve concentration, and enhance overall well-being. They are often used as part of a broader treatment plan to manage symptoms of anxiety and stress-related disorders

These strategies are part of Australia's broader mental health framework, which is a collaborative effort between the Australian Government and state and territory governments to ensure accessible and effective mental health care for all Australians.

References

1. aihw.gov.au - Australia's mental health system
2. YouTube - Focussed Psychological Strategies – what are they are and ...
3. gpmhsc.org.au - Focussed Psychological Strategies Skills Training
4. researchgate.net - A scoping review of mental health status in ...
5. gpmhsc.org.au - Focussed Psychological Strategies Skills Training
6. gpmhsc.org.au - What are Focussed Psychological Strategies (FPS)?