A + response for mental health
Our Mental and Addiction Health Triage Team have seen a thirty percent increase in demand for their service since the COVID-19 pandemic started. To help support the growing number of people in the community who are reaching out for mental health support, the Triage + response was established.
This team of mental health clinicians are available 24/7 to support people suffering from stress, anxiety, depression or any other mental health issues that are pre-existing or have been exacerbated by the pandemic.
The Triage + team contact people in their care daily, or however often is suitable for the person - for up to two weeks, either over the phone or via video call.
The team deliver brief intervention therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, provide online resources to help with anxiety, sleep and stress – or provide general support.
Due to the ongoing increased need for mental health support, the Triage + response is now a permanent part of our Mental and Addiction Health service.
“People are facing a multitude of stressors right now and there are no quick fixes. When job keeper ends, when employment is lost, people are under financial pressure and relationships are strained, people need someone to support them. The mental health effects from the pandemic could continue to impact on people’s lives for a long time yet,” said Kathryn Henderson, Consultation Liaison Emergency Psychiatry Operations Manager.
The team take calls from anyone living in the inner south-east Melbourne catchment. If you are feeling like you may need extra support during this time, you can contact the team on 1300 363 746 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
