Commission Update - March/April 2020 Issue 67
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Message from the Commissioner
Here at the Commission we are following physical distancing advice and working from home to help flatten the curve. We are continuing to engage with our colleagues across the sector and government to share information and advice, and to make sure we are continuing to deliver on our mental health reform priorities during these times.
It has been pleasing and reassuring to see that government agencies are organised, co-ordinated and understand the priority of wellbeing and mental health in planning responses to COVID-19.
I am also pleased to see that the media and the community more generally has mental health, as well as physical health, on their radar.
We have created a new page on the Commission website with evidence-based resources and tips for people struggling with mental health issues at this time and we are continually updating this information. Please take the time to check this page out.
I am also collaborating with my fellow Commissioners from other states and territories to develop a joint response to this national and international crisis.
In addition, the Commission and the three mental health peak bodies - Being, Mental Health Carers and the Mental Health Co-ordinating Council, are meeting regularly to share information and understandings of how the response to the pandemic is affecting people with lived experience, as well as the organisations providing support for them.
We are living through challenging and uncertain times, but I encourage all of you to remain hopeful. The COVID-19 pandemic will pass, and while the way we work, connect and live our lives will be changed for a time, we will return to freer times.
I am heartened when I hear of people writing letters to their neighbours to let them know they are not alone, kids writing chalk messages on footpaths and people leaving care packages for their older neighbours.
The most important things we can do for ourselves, our loved ones and our communities is to prioritise mental health and wellbeing, to check in with each other and stay connected virtually or by phone, and to show kindness.
Yours sincerely,
Catherine Lourey
NSW Mental Health Commissioner
Mental health funding in response to COVID-19 is welcomed
The NSW Mental Health Commission welcomes the Federal Government’s announcement of a $1.1 Billion boost for telehealth, mental health, family supports and emergency relief, including initial funding of $74 Million for mental health services.
Lived Experience Framework grant update
Applications for the Lived Experience Framework grants have now closed. The Commission received over 70 applications. Thank you to all the individuals and organisations who expressed interest. We are currently reviewing applications and will be in touch soon.
David's story
Growing up, David spent time in hospital and had challenges with his mental health. As an adult, David considers it important to share his experiences with mental health issues to reduce stigma and give hope to other people: "Everybody has setbacks – it’s part of the human condition. Why should mental illness be any different? I accept it and move on."
Living Well mid-term review update
We are continuing to update our website with consultation summaries and examples of innovative programs and initiatives that are improving mental health and wellbeing in NSW. Watch the video showcasing the Petspace program, an animal assisted therapy program that supports young people in Western Sydney.
New mental health support package
The Government is providing a $74 million package to support the mental health and wellbeing of Australians during the COVID-19 crisis. This package includes medicare rebates for telehealth and support for older peoples, children and young people, as well as frontline mental health workers.
Applications open for mentoring program
The Community Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol Research Network is calling for applications for the Community Mentoring Research Project, which provides short-term mentoring to link you with an academic who has expertise in the area related to your research ideas.
Beyond Blue launches online support service
Beyond Blue has launched the Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service. This online support service and forum hub provides information, advice and strategies to help people manage their wellbeing and mental health during the COVID-19 crisis.
Upcoming online events
Maternal Mental Health Matters
Wednesday 22 April, Health Education and Training Institute
Supporting Trans and Gender Diverse Children Webinar
Thursday 23 April, Emerging Minds
Co-production and Research Webinar
Friday 24 April, Community Health, Drug and Alcohol Research Network
#LivingWellNSW
During uncertain and stressful times, it is important to take each day as it comes and be kind to yourself and your community. Action For Happiness has compiled 30-day coping calendar with suggested actions to look after ourselves and each other as we face this global crisis together.
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
Are you looking for a mental health service in your area? Try the WayAhead Directory.
