Data reveals one in five people (21%) have experienced a mental health disorder over the past 12 months with 1.4 million Australians working through post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
With three in four Australians likely to experience an event that causes psychological trauma in their lifetime, Palladium Private has seen a significant increase in guests presenting with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a rise in demand for evidence-based, mental wellbeing support.
Trauma is the lasting emotional, psychological and physiological effects from stressful events. These events range from neglect, abuse, sudden forced change, discrimination, interpersonal conflicts and unpredictability. The stress reactions that can develop after exposure to traumatic events can be severely debilitating, with long-lasting effects such as graphic “flashback” memories, nightmares, extreme physical distress, intense preoccupation, negative moods, inability to sustain or reconnect to previous relationships and social isolation – all of which require careful and considered treatment1.
Although typically PTSD is treated through cognitive behavioural therapy or even medications, advancements in group therapy has actually been shown to be highly effective when it comes to the journey of PTSD recovery. Shared experiences can connect one another, reduce isolation, facilitate vulnerability and strengthen support systems – all of which can be pivotal when healing from trauma6.
Clinical Director at Palladium Private, Georgia Ray, expresses how group sessions are particularly beneficial for those dealing with PTSD.
“The power of collective empathy, reflection, relativity and vulnerability acts as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and healing. Through shared experiences, participants can find validation and understanding, allowing them to share their own struggles in a safe and supportive environment,” said Ray.
One of the distinctive features of Palladium Private’s Therapeutic Community model (TC model) is the inclusion of daily group therapy. These sessions foster a supported exploration of one’s emotions, thoughts, and relational dynamics (past and present) enabling guests to experience powerful insights, observe other’s insights and formulate healthy beliefs, thought patterns and responses.
The full immersion, integrative, holistic program covers various dimensions, including biology, psychology, community, spiritual, family and social dynamics. The combination of one-on-one psychotherapy with group therapy sessions is empowering guests with the insights, tools and support to redesign their future.
As a result of the significant increase in demand for mental wellbeing care, Palladium Private Health Retreat now accommodates 18 guests, with emphasis on elevated group programs for anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma and PTSD, running from 3 to 6 weeks.
General Manager at Palladium Private, Kalyani Gardner, states how Palladium is committed to addressing the essential need for more mental wellbeing support, particularly in relation to PTSD.
“We are seeing more people considering support through residential programs. Palladium wants to ensure it is able to accommodate this growing need and provide a high-quality therapeutic care to individuals seeking change. The past years post-COVID has created a much greater need for mental health services and this expansion will see us able to help more Australians navigate their challenging life situations, stressors and triggers,” sais Gardner.
Nestled in a serene setting in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, the newly expanded health retreat, Palladium Private, is attracting individuals nationwide by offering a unique and intimate experience for individuals seeking comprehensive mental health support.
With an 80% past-guest program satisfaction rate and a commitment to ongoing support with an extensive six-month Aftercare program, the demand and need for more space at Palladium Private Health Retreat has been evident.
Palladium’s team of highly trained therapists expertly combine a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, ACT, Relational Therapies, Neuropsychotherapy, Sensorimotor Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Schema Therapy and more. By integrating these diverse and holistic approaches, guests benefit from a tailored approach that addresses their unique needs, igniting life transformation long-term.
PTSD can be greatly debilitating and is impacting millions of Australians right across the country. If left untreated it can leave devastating impacts on the sufferer, and their families.
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Menchie Khairuddin is a writer and Deputy Content Manager at Akolade. She is passionate about social affairs specifically in mixed, multicultural heritage and not-for-profit organisations.
