New pop-up mental health clinics have opened today in Hurstville, Bankstown, and Lakemba to provide additional mental health support for residents through ongoing COVID-19 restrictions.
The new clinics have been funded by the Federal Government and offer video and telephone support from a team of mental health professionals including psychologists, mental health nurses, social workers, mental health occupational therapists, and peer workers. COVID-safe face-to-face support will also be offered where recommended by a clinician. The service is free of charge.
People seeking support can call the clinics on 1800 595 212 and speak to a mental health professional who will direct them to the most appropriate care according to their individual needs.
The Hursville, Bankstown, and Lakemba clinics are three of ten new clinics opening today in NSW which will remain open until June 2022. The Federal Government committed $10.6 million to this initiative.
Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, and Member for Banks, David Coleman MP, said that the new clinics will provide another way for people to reach out for support when they need it.
“It’s OK not to feel OK. The current loss of freedom, lack of personal contact, and work-related issues are causing major distress for many people,” Mr Coleman said.
“We know that services like Lifeline and Kids Helpline have reported an increase in calls during the pandemic from those seeking support.”
“I urge anyone who is feeling distressed to reach out for support by calling the clinics on 1800 595 212 or any of the other mental health services available.”
Since January 2020, more than $500 million has been provided to help mental health services respond to the impact of the pandemic, including Lifeline, headspace, Beyond Blue, Kids Helpline, and the Butterfly Foundation.
People looking for support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic can access the Beyond Blue Coronavirus Wellbeing Support Service anytime via telephone at 1800 512 348 or online at coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au.
Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice and support through Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), or the Government’s digital mental health gateway, Head to Health.
If you are concerned about suicide, living with someone who is considering suicide, or bereaved by suicide, the Suicide Call Back Service is available at 1300 659 467 or Suicide Call Back Service.