An online mental health tool launched this week will help local people find support services quickly and easily.
Designed for tablets, smartphones and other devices, the tool will help people in the Blue Mountains region to navigate more than 200 local mental health programs and services within five clicks.
Known as Mental Health Help (www.MentalHealthHelp.com.au), people use a built-in search function to find a service or they can select from a range of feelings that will direct them to the most appropriate services for the type or severity of their mental health problem.
It provides quick navigation to mental health services in an emergency or crisis situation or to other services such as drug and alcohol, gambling, employment, emergency relief, housing and accommodation.
The tool also provides general mental health advice and accurate comprehensive information about getting help, treatment and support.
Mental Health Help has been developed with mental health consumers, carers, local organisations and the wider community as part of the Partners in Recovery (PIR) Program. PIR is a federal government initiative led by the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network (NBMPHN) in collaboration with other organisations committed to supporting the recovery journey of people experiencing long term mental illness.
PIR provides support for people with severe and persistent mental illness who have complex needs and require assistance from multiple agencies across different sectors.
The tool was launched earlier this week at the Living Well in Nepean and Blue Mountains Forum organised by the Mental Health Commission of NSW.
Lizz Reay, CEO of NBMPHN, said: “People with mental illness tell us that the relationships they have with service providers are vital to their recovery. They and their families encounter many barriers in their search for support. This tool will assist them to navigate the health system.”
