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New governance committees get to work
Yesterday, Acting Mental Health Commissioner, Jen McGrath, chaired the inaugural meeting of the the new Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Council (CMC), with leaders from the community services sector and representatives of consumers and families/carers attending. Last week the inaugural Mental Health Executive Committee (MHEC) meeting was also held.
New data shows most are not drinking at risky levels and less are using illicit drugs in Western Australia
Data from the latest National Drug Strategy Household Survey conducted in 2019 found more than four in five (82.8%) of Western Australians aged 14 years and over had followed the guidelines for avoiding lifetime harm (either not drinking or drinking less than two standard drinks per day).
New suicide prevention projects to help reduce risk
The Mental Health Commission will be working to support local communities to develop and implement a region-by-region approach to Aboriginal suicide prevention in Western Australia, after it was announced by Deputy Premier and Minister for Mental Health Roger Cook today. An additional $4.79 million has also been allocated to programs to provide additional suicide prevention support to all Western Australians as part of the WA Recovery Plan.
New Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Council to strengthen links
The Minister for Mental Health Roger Cook today announced a new Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Council will be established. The new Council will strengthen collaboration between the community services sector, government and consumers, carers and families.
$56m boost to mental health and alcohol and other drug supports
Today Minister for Mental Health Roger Cook announced the investment of $56 million for mental health and alcohol and other drug services. The additional funding will create new community models of care, supporting at-risk and vulnerable groups.
State and Federal mental health leaders join forces
The Western Australian Mental Health Commission has joined mental health commissions and leaders across Australia in issuing a Joint Mental Health Commissions and Leaders Communique in support of the National Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan.
New alcohol and other drug support service for health care professionals
In response to COVID-19, the Minister for Mental Health Roger Cook last week announced the launch of a hotline to assist GPs and other front-line health professionals to provide treatment and support to patients experiencing alcohol and other drug (AOD) issues. The dedicated line for health professionals provides access to specialist clinicians for expert alcohol and other drug treatment advice.
New Campaign encourages Western Australians to Be Positive. Be Connected. Be Active.
In recognition of heightened levels of stress and anxiety in the community during this unprecedented time, Minister for Mental Health Roger Cook has launched a dedicated campaign to help Western Australians manage their mental health and wellbeing.
WA State Priorities 2020-2024
The Deputy Premier and Minister for Mental Health Roger Cook has today set the direction for mental health, alcohol and other drug services in Western Australia.
The WA State Priorities 2020-2024 outline the immediate priorities to reform and improve the mental health, alcohol and other drug (AOD) sector over the next four years.
Clinical Governance Review released
The State Government has released the Clinical Governance Review and is adding the new position of Chief Medical Officer, Mental Health to the Mental Health Commission. The new position will also have a key role in a newly created Mental Health Executive Committee.