Head to Health hubs are providing free and easy-to-access mental health support in South Western Sydney, attendees at the launch of the new Commonwealth-funded service were told on Wednesday, 8 December.
The clinics opened in September and are leading the state in the number of consumers accessing support.
The service provides short-to-medium term support for people experiencing moderate-to-high levels of mental health distress. People who need support can call 1800 595 212 or pop into one of the hubs at any time to discuss their mental health needs and concerns.
Dr Keith McDonald PhD, Chief Executive Officer of South Western Sydney PHN (SWSPHN) which commissions the service, said South Western Sydney was on the frontlines of the pandemic when funding for the service was announced in August.
“The pandemic and the lockdown had a heavy impact on our community, with an increase in psychological distress,” he said. “What was needed was a high quality, flexible service that was open to everyone, with no out-of-pocket costs.
“Together with One Door, we have worked hard to get these services established, and our community has embraced the service with more than 150 individuals already accessing Head to Health.”
Kathi Boorman, Chief Executive Officer of One Door Mental Health which delivers the service, reported a 25 per cent increase in referrals compared to the previous financial year, with the uncertainty, job losses, isolation and stress on relationships caused by the pandemic.
“We really needed the service up and running in a short period of time,” she said. “We needed a service that was more humane and person-centred. Feedback from services users includes: it is helpful, life-saving, staff are friendly and approachable, and it is mental health support which works.”
Program Manager Chris Jones said Head to Health made the first step to seeking support easy.
“We have a skilled and passionate multidisciplinary team providing efficient, effective and navigable support to people of all ages, genders, sexuality and cultural backgrounds,” he said.
More information about Head to Health Pop Up services can be accessed via
HeadtoHealth.gov.au/PopUp
Head to Health Hubs are open at:
- Suite 24, 1-5 Jacobs Street, Jacobs Court, Bankstown
- Level 6, 203 Northumberland Street, Liverpool