Description

Today we’re talking about the mental health and community supports, services and referral pathways available to people across the Southern Downs Region with Helen O’Brien.

* Please note that the Mental Health Service Navigator program discussed in this episode ceased being funded at the end of 2022. Mental health navigation and connection services are now provided by Head to Health.

Helen is a Social Worker in the vital role of Mental Health Service Navigator on the Southern Downs. This is a free service that helps residents and service providers navigate the often confusing maze of mental health and community services.  

In this conversation Helen explains

• how her role works to link residents up with services and supports that meet their needs using the current stepped care approach
• how to access personal support or counselling for yourself including free and subsidised services
• the Mental Health Service Navigators have access to up-to-date information about local services which helps health professionals and community workers access the most appropriate referral pathways for their clients
• the types of supports and services available for people across the Southern Downs Region including mental health services, more general health services and community supports which help alleviate stresses such as difficulties with housing and finances

Helen also leaves us with her Top 3 Tips to make it easier to access services, resources and supports. Helen offers a very helpful, friendly and approachable way of getting connected in the community.

RESOURCES AND LINKS
Download a handout which includes a summary of the episode with the Top 3 Takeaways or Tips and a full list of the services and resources we referred to.

Get connected to your local mental health supports
Head to Health
P: 1800 595 212

Crisis Support - 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services
“Lifeline”
P: 13 11 14 (Australia)

Southern Downs Regional Council

Contact Kathryn from Kathryn Walton Consulting

Speak Out Loud has been supported through funding from the Darling Downs and West Moreton PHN.

Music by Twisterium from Pixabay