Blog article
How the Mind Matters program can support your mental health recovery
Coming home from a hospital stay for mental health treatment can feel like a turning point – but it can also raise questions about what comes next. How do you stay well? What support is available now that you’re back in your everyday life?
That’s where the Mind Matters program comes in. Designed in partnership with Mind Australia, this recovery-focused program gives eligible HBF members1 access to personalised mental health support – tailored to your needs, goals, and lifestyle.
We spoke with Pippa Bridges, Senior Manager Health Programs at HBF, to learn more about how the program works and the type of support it offers.
What is the Mind Matters program?
Mind Matters is a therapeutic recovery program designed to support people after a hospital stay for mental health treatment. Over the course of six to nine months, participants are supported by a team of mental health professionals, including experienced psychologists, occupational therapists, and social workers.
The program includes up to 16 therapy sessions, delivered via secure telehealth or in-person depending on your location. Your support plan will be personalised – because recovery looks different for everyone.
“Mental health recovery doesn’t end when someone leaves hospital,” says Pippa. “This program helps people continue to build on that progress, with guidance that fits into everyday life.”
What kind of support is included in Mind Matters?
Because Mind Matters is tailored to each person’s circumstances, the support you receive will depend on your goals. Some of the ways participants may be supported include:
- Returning to work, study or volunteering in a way that feels sustainable
- Rebuilding social connections or relationships
- Managing time, finances, or day-to-day responsibilities
- Understanding your condition and building strategies for long-term wellbeing
- Exploring local support services and community programs
Sessions are usually held weekly or fortnightly in the beginning, with the option to taper off as you progress through the program.
“It’s a program focused on life outside the clinic,” says Pippa. “Our aim is to help people build skills, confidence and resilience – not just during therapy, but well beyond it.”
How do I get started in the Mind Matters program?
If you’ve received an invitation from HBF to the Mind Matters program, the HBF Health Programs team will reach out to tell you more about the program and what your next steps might be.
If you haven’t received an invitation but think the program might be right for you, you’re welcome to get in touch. Our Health Programs team can talk you through the eligibility criteria and help you explore your options. Call us on 1300 886 513 or send us an email.
“Even if you’re feeling better after hospital, that’s often the best time to build new strategies for staying well,” says Pippa. “Mind Matters is about helping people take those next steps with confidence and support.”
What does Mind Matters cost?
There’s no additional cost to take part in the program if you hold eligible HBF hospital cover and meet the program criteria.¹
Want to know more about Mind Matters?
Everyone’s mental health journey is different – but you don’t have to figure it out alone. If you’re looking for flexible, practical support following a hospital stay, the Mind Matters program could help you feel more connected, capable and confident.
