Community Industry Group is calling for candidates to priori tise services to support people living with mental health conditions in the upcoming NSW election.
" Too many people are reaching a mental health crisis before they can get access to the services they need in NSW," said Nicky Sloan, CEO of Community Industry Group. " As excellent as public hospital accident and emergency services are, they are not the most appropriate service for people experiencing a mental health episode." Community Industry Group is calling for more investment in community mental health services.
Currently NSW allocates only 7% of its health budget to mental health, representing about half of the national average. "We also need nvestment in Specialist Mental Health Crisis services," Ms Sloan said. "Instead of relying on Police and Ambu lance, these specialist services would be able to respond more effectively, reducing stress and trauma for the person, for their loved ones, and for the general public." Furthermore, given the complexity of the mental health system, better information services and clearer referral pathways are required. The adoption of a Stepped Care model, together with sufficient clinical care, rehabilitation services, and ongoing wellness support would reduce strain on the hospital system, and improve outcomes for people with mental h ealth issues.
"Too often we hear that family or friends notice a decline in someone's mental health, but have nowher e to turn to for help. Often they must reach a crisis, such as experiencing a psychotic episode before they receive help, but this is fright ening and distresing for them and their loved ones, and often results in extended and unnecessary residential stays," Ms Sloan said.
NSW needs community based support services that focus on assisting people to participate in community life, as well as peer support workers who can draw on their own lived experience to provide support and help for people on the road to recovery.
"Too often disadvantage and mental health issues combine to overwhelm individuals," Ms Sloan said. "People with mental illness are often victims of harrassment and violence, often struggle to maintain healthy relationships, and are more likely to experience homlessness. A robust mental health system will bring about better outcomes for individuals, families, and for the whole of NSW."
