Mind Matters: Understanding, Navigating and Overcoming Anxiety and Depression with The Cloud GP, Dr Shiromi

Content warning: this episode discusses suicide.

In this episode, Dr Shauna is joined by Dr Shiromi, aka The Cloud GP.

After working as a General Practitioner for more than 15 years, Dr Shiromi developed a strong passion for helping patients struggling with their mental health. She created The Cloud GP, an online platform providing access to timely mental health support and resources, for people who may not be comfortable seeking professional help.

In this episode, Dr Shauna and Dr Shiromi discuss topics including:

• Why did you create The Cloud GP?
• What can people expect to gain from completing the online mental health program?
• Stigma around mental health - why does this exist?
• The impact of the COVID-19 lockdowns on mental health.
• How can we define poor mental health? What does that look like?
• Symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• How do you know when you should be going to see your GP?
• What should you do if you know someone who might be experiencing anxiety or depression?
• What lifestyle changes can you make to help improve mental health?
• Advice if you are struggling with sleep.
• Meditation: how do you start?
• Tips for having a conversation with someone struggling with mental health.
• How to help someone who may be having suicidal thoughts.
• The importance of finding a GP you know and trust.
• Why speaking to a psychologist is different than speaking to family or friends.
• Depression in the perimenopause and menopause.
• Blood tests: why are these useful when discussing mental health concerns?
• A piece of advice for her 20-something self.

For more information and resources from Dr Shiromi:

Visit The Cloud GP website.

Enroll in the online mental health program, a short course to help you understand and navigate anxiety and depression.

Follow her on socials:
Instagram: @‌thecloudgp
LinkedIn: Dr Shiromi Wimalaguna

Dr Shiromi graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery in 2008, she completed her intern and residency years through Alfred Health in Melbourne. She has been a general practitioner for over 10 years and is a specialist fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). She has worked in both suburban and regional settings, in hospitals, school-based programs and general practice clinics. With a special interest in mental health, Shiromi has advanced skills in focussed psychological strategies and is trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.

Watch the episode on Youtube here.

Visit the website to access episodes or send Dr Shauna a message.

Follow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:

Instagram: @‌allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts @‌drshaunawattsgp

LinkedIn: Dr Shauna Watts