People experiencing emotional distress will now be able to access support in two new ways.
The first is a free and confidential non-clinical hub called Safe Haven and 20 of them have been approved and funded.
One of these is in Campbelltown and is located at Woodhouse Drive, Ambarvale.
The second is a mobile suicide prevention outreach team, and 20 of those have also been given the green light and funded, with 14 up and running.
South Western Sydney Local Health District mental health director Dr Claire Jones says Safe Haven is a place where people can informally chat to trained staff, have a cup of tea or coffee, play board games or puzzles, join an activity or chill out in a quiet spot.
“Our Safe Haven provides a different type of support for people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts,’’ Dr Jones said.
“The peer support team have had their own personal lived experience of suicidal distress and they can help people by linking them to the services and support programs that can assist them.’’
These two new support services for people who are feeling blue are a $46 million investment in suicide prevention.
“We know suicide prevention support needs to engage distressed people where they live their lives – if we can be there to provide support before someone needs to be hospitalised, we can help reduce the likelihood of further suicidal behaviours,” says NSW minister for mental health Bronnie Taylor.
“Instead of struggling alone or heading to a bustling emergency department, anyone who is experiencing mental health distress can now head to one of these purpose designed Safe Havens.
“There are no appointments or referrals needed, so whether you need some peace and quiet, a chat with someone who understands what you’re going through, or some calming activities to reduce the intensity of your negative thoughts and feelings, you can walk right in.”
- Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.
