Among its projects, the Australian Mental Health Society has worked hard to include mental health as a factor in every election-related issue (now reform issues) and calls for a 25% reduction in suicides by 2025.
The society brought participants together for policy formation and workforce and psychosocial challenges discussions. It also provided submissions with our members on issues like veteran suicide, the royal commission on defence, and school chaplaincy and started publishing our first Report to the Nation.
Encouraged Australians to take care of their mental health during October as we recognized World Mental Health Day Mental Health Australia’s World Mental Health Day theme of awareness, belonging, and connection also emerged in the Report to the Nation findings. We held our most successful Advocacy Day ever, bringing the mental health sector to Canberra to speak with 65 members of Parliament.
According to the first Mental Health Australia Report to the Nation, there are many reasons to rejoice in terms of Australians’ mental health and well-being. Most of the research indicated that we are a contented and socially connected society with things to look forward to.
When the study focused on priority populations, particularly First Nations Australians, LBGTQIA+ persons, and those diagnosed with mental health issues, troubling tendencies became apparent. Although concerning, these findings offer chances to increase support.
The legendary Noel Pearson called on all Australians to assume responsibility for ensuring that First Nations Australians had a voice in Parliament during this year’s Grace Groom Memorial Oration. A voice that is essential because it gives indigenous people the freedom to become “a modern version of ourselves” and the foundation for self-esteem.
In particular, at this time of year and with the extra stresses of rising living costs and global challenges, Noel’s modest and poignant address and the conclusions of the Report to the Nation serve as a reminder of the value of kindness and connection.
Finally, this week the Minister for Health announced the cessation of financing for the additional sessions offered under COVID support measures and released the review of the Better Access Initiative. Mental Health Australia welcomes Minister Butler’s promise to consult with the industry in 2023 on the evaluation and future effects. Nevertheless, it is a serious worry to discontinue the extra sessions without providing a substitute route for those with more severe mental illnesses.
As the national peak, we look forward to working with those who have lived experience and those who love and care for them, as well as with our members, the sector, and governments to ensure that there is equitable access for all and to identify and remove obstacles to receiving that appropriate care.
