COALITION MOVES TO TACKLE MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES
An important motion, put forward by the Coalition, seeking strong action on mental health has been passed by the Senate and is moving to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Local Federal MP Philip Ruddock says that mental health is an important issue which impacts tremendously on the lives of many Australian families.
‘Right now through my Electorate Office I am seeking to assist four local families with problems that have arisen as they battle to support loved ones suffering mental illness.’
‘All four are young adult males. This is symptomatic of the national problem, with younger Australians between 16 and 24 bearing the brunt.’
Mr Ruddock said that with early and targeted treatment, many young people can overcome mental illness or at least lower the incidence of progression or relapse.
The motion to be considered seeks to expand the number of Headspace and Early Psychosis Prevention & Intervention Centres available.
Headspace is Australia’s National Youth Mental Health Foundation. Their nearest centres to the Berowra electorate are located in Sydney and at Mt Druitt. The Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centres (EPPIC) is a Melbourne-based organisation.
‘The time to tackle mental health issues is when they first occur. More mental health services would ease the current squeeze on public hospital emergency departments.’
‘The need is urgent and so should be government action’.
‘Labor’s first term came and went with no action on mental health. The Coalition wants action rather than talk.’
Mr Ruddock said the Coalition hoped the Independents in the House of Representatives would support the motion and show their commitment to improving mental health services.