South Coast Private Hospital

05/05/2026

Not sure whether you or someone you care about needs in-hospital mental health treatment or whether a day program might be enough?

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

🏥 In-hospital care (inpatient admission) can be the right option when symptoms are unsafe to manage at home or in the community, requiring stabilisation with 24/7 clinical support in a structured environment. It’s also an option for those who need time away from daily pressures to focus on their mental health in a safe, supportive setting.

🏡Day programs (sometimes called outpatient programs) provide structured therapy during the day while you live at home - often a good fit when symptoms are moderate, home is safe and stable, or as a step-down after inpatient care.

If you’re unsure what level of care is right, starting with a GP or mental health professional is a great first step. Early support can make a real difference.

If you’d like to learn more about treatment options, reach out to our team:

📞 1800 250 00
📨 sco.info@aurorahealth.com.au
🌐 southcoastprivate.com.au

01/05/2026

🌟 Love Your Work – April 2026 Winner 🌟

We’re excited to celebrate this month’s Love Your Work award recipient, psychiatrist Dr James Oldham, who received an overwhelming show of recognition from colleagues! 👏

Dr Oldham’s dedication, compassion, and positivity clearly resonate across our team. Here’s just a snapshot of what his colleagues had to say:

💬 “He is always so caring for staff and patients… thanking us every single day.”

💬 “Goes above and beyond to express his gratitude to all members of the team.”

💬 “Always greets staff with a big smile and makes everyone feel welcome.”

💬 “A highly experienced clinician who demonstrates empathy, compassion, and a commitment to exceptional care.”

💬 “Kind, patient-centred, and always willing to go the extra mile for both patients and staff.”

Dr Oldham’s ability to combine clinical excellence with genuine kindness and teamwork is what makes him such a valued part of our community.

Congratulations, Dr Oldham – We Love Your Work and thank you for everything you do ❣️

Learn more about Dr Oldham: https://southcoastprivate.com.au/healthcare-team/james-oldham/

24/04/2026

Today, we take a moment to reflect on the enduring legacy of the ANZAC spirit. A legacy that fills us with pride and brings us together as we join to pay tribute and remember those who sacrificed their lives for our country. A day in which we also honour the service men and women who have served and continue to serve our country in war and peace keeping missions.

We will remember them - Lest we Forget

22/04/2026

Do you ever feel emotionally numb or disconnected from your feelings?

Feeling emotionally flat or unable to connect with your emotions can be a sign of stress, trauma, depression, or burnout. It’s a common but rarely discussed symptom.

Our latest blog explores:
• What emotional numbness is
• Why it happens and what causes it
• How to seek help if you’re feeling disconnected from your emotions

Read more here: southcoastprivate.com.au/news/why-do-i-feel-emotionally-numb-understanding-emotional-numbness/

Learn more about our services: southcoastprivate.com.au/

20/04/2026

We understand that the time leading up to and after ANZAC Day can be a difficult time for our veterans. We know that sometimes the impact of service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. That’s why we are here to serve those who have dedicated their life to serving others.

If you are struggling with:

• PTSD
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mood Disorders
• Addiction or Substance Use

You are not alone. We are here to help.

Watch Jim’s story as he shares his powerful story about life after service: https://youtu.be/hLNT-VjMNNo?si=BmMpYNpRS46n-mTV

How can we help?

We offer trauma informed, evidence-based inpatient and outpatient treatments to support the mental health needs of our veterans and current serving defence members in a safe and supportive environment.

Ready to take the next step?
Call us on 1800 250 000 or email sco.info@aurorahealth.com.au
Visit our website to find out more: https://southcoastprivate.com.au/ptsd-program-for-first-responders-veterans-and-def/

17/04/2026

A fantastic milestone for our veteran community 👏

Congratulations to RSL LifeCare Veteran Services on the announcement of the new Veterans and Families Hub at the historic Bardia Barracks.

Our team had the privilege of attending the announcement event on Wednesday and celebrating this important step forward. Initiatives like this play a critical role in strengthening support networks for veterans and their families.

These hubs provide a vital connection point, making it easier for veterans and their families to acces services, care and community.

We look forward to seeing the positive impact this hub will have across the region.

15/04/2026

Our 2026 Art Exhibition has come to a close and what an incredible showcase it has been! We hope you enjoy this look back at the exhibition 🎨

Thank you to every artist who shared their work and personal journey with our community. We thank you for your courage and creativity.
Each piece reflected strength, growth and lived experience, reminding us that behind every artwork is a powerful story.

And to everyone who visited, thank you for being part of our community.

Sometimes, when it's hard to find the words, there's art.

Learn more about our creative therapies: https://southcoastprivate.com.au/day-programs/

13/04/2026

Relapse isn’t failure, it’s often part of recovery.

If you support someone with mental health challenges, it can be confronting when symptoms return after a period of stability. It’s easy to worry that things are “going backwards.”

But mental health recovery is rarely a straight line.

Relapse often happens during times of increased stress, life changes, or when support needs shift and not because treatment has failed or someone hasn’t tried hard enough.

With the right support at the right time, relapse can be a signal to pause, reassess and strengthen recovery.
You don’t have to wait until things reach crisis. Early support, whether that’s extra therapy, medication review, or structured mental health care, can make a real difference.

If someone you care about seems to be struggling again, trust your instincts. Start the conversation and seek support early.

We're here to help.

📞1800 250 000
📨 sco.info@aurorahealth.com.au
🌐 southcoastprivate.com.au

10/04/2026

Big welcome to our newest team members who wrapped up orientation today! 👏

Starting somewhere new can feel like a big step, but it’s also the beginning of something exciting. We’re proud to have you on board and look forward to the skills, perspectives and energy you’ll bring to our team.

And what better way to finish your first week than with a Friday orientation photo, smiles intact and (hopefully) not too overwhelmed!

Welcome aboard 💙

Learn more about us: https://southcoastprivate.com.au/

09/04/2026

Mental health first aid training is a powerful and essential skill to have in your first aid toolkit.

See the post below for more information on training sessions offered by Talk2MeBro.

Would you know what to do if someone you cared about was in a mental health crisis?⁠
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Join us for a 2-day Mental Health First Aid training course and gain the essential skills to recognise and support those experiencing mental health challenges.⁠
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April 11-12, 2026 | South Coast Private, Wollongong⁠
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Just like traditional first aid equips you to respond to physical emergencies, this course gives you the knowledge and confidence to assist someone facing a mental health crisis - until professional help arrives or the situation stabilises.⁠
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Who should attend?⁠
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Teachers, employers, community leaders, first responders, parents, and anyone who wants to make a real difference.⁠
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Why it matters:⁠
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Mental health crises don't wait for office hours. This training could help you save a life.⁠
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👉 Register now: https://www.talk2mebro.org.au/event/mental-health-first-aid-wollongong
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Become a certified Mental Health First Aider. Be the person someone needs in their darkest moment.

01/04/2026

🌼 Supporting Parents During the Holidays 🌼

School holidays can feel like a whirlwind for parents, balancing family activities, managing stress and finding time for yourself can be overwhelming. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to take a step back and prioritise your mental health. Whether it’s through a walk, a good book, or a chat with a friend, self-care is essential.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, our latest blog has helpful tips on managing stress during the holidays and taking care of your mental health as a parent. You’re not alone, take a moment to read it and discover how we can support you this season.

Read the blog here: https://southcoastprivate.com.au/news/surviving-school-holidays-a-parents-guide-to-managing-stress-and-prioritising-mental-health/

30/03/2026

🌟 Love Your Work Award Winner for March 2026

We're excited to announce Lisa, our fantastic roster clerk, as the winner of our Love Your Work award for March!

Lisa plays a crucial role in keeping our nursing team running like clockwork. Her ability to handle the complexities of rostering with incredible organisation and efficiency ensures our wards operate smoothly and safely. She consistently goes above and beyond to support staff, tackle problems and find solutions, all while remaining approachable, cheerful and positive.

Here's some of what Lisa's colleague had to say about her:

“Always ready to help wherever needed. Always so pleasant and cheerful. It’s a pleasure and privilege to be on the team with you, Lisa!”

Lisa’s hard work and positive energy make a huge difference to staff morale, and her commitment to supporting the team truly embodies the spirit of the Love Your Work award. We're lucky to have her on our team! 🙌

Congratulations, Lisa! We Love Your Work ❣️

Learn more about us: https://southcoastprivate.com.au/