This week, the Federal Government has announced major mental health system reforms including more individualised and flexible care options, rather than the current “one-size-fits-all” approach.
“Mental illness gnaws away at participation and productivity. Treating it more effectively is going to be transformative. It will result in better lives for thousands of Australians and a stronger economy and greater opportunities for all of us,” said Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
The reforms will respond to the 2014 National Mental Health Commission Review which emphasized the negative impacts of mental health on national productivity and economy.
The Review also criticised the current system which only allows mental health patients 10 subsidised psychology sessions a year under Medicare.
The new reforms will include:
- No new money, just shifting existing funds.
- Stepped care model — different levels of primary care treatment and support depending on their level of need.
- Service delivery will now come from the government’s 31 Primary Care Networks rather than Canberra.
- $85 million over three years for indigenous mental health. * A new one-stop-shop mental health help phone line.
- Individualised care packages for those with severe and complex mental illness.
- New resources for teachers to recognise and prevent mental health problems.
- Reforms will be rolled out over a three-year period between 2016 and 2019.
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue (https://www.beyondblue.org.au/) on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.
(News source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-11-26/mental-health-overhaul-announced/6975586)
At Inala Community House, we acknowledge the importance of mental health especially through our Community Support Program (CSP). CSP organises a range of activities for all members of the community, including people with mental illness, their families and carers.
Every Monday from 10am to noon, CSP runs a Musical Morning Tea held at “Our Place Hall” (Cnr. Japonica and Robinia Streets, Inala). We are pleased to support a few of our existing members with mental illness, who have benefitted greatly from social interaction and activity participation.
If you would like to sign up for Musical Morning Tea or CSP, please contact Haley Kiata (via e-mail haley.kiata@ich.org.au or telephone 3372 1711).