NEW SERVICES BRING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT CLOSER TO HOME FOR COOTAMUNDRA ELECTORATE

​​Friday, 19 November 2021​ 

People in the Cootamundra electorate experiencing mental health distress will now be able to access support in two new ways, thanks to a pair of new suicide prevention initiatives.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke welcomed the addition of two Safe Havens to existing community-based supports in the Murrumbidgee Local Health District. 

“Instead of struggling alone, anyone who is experiencing mental health distress can now head to the purpose-designed Safe Havens at Wagga and Griffith,” Ms Cooke said.

“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.”

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the Safe Haven was staffed by peer workers who were trained in helping people cope with severe distress.

“We know suicide prevention support needs to engage distressed people where they live their lives – so we can provide support at the point before someone needs clinical care.”

The support offered through the Safe Haven will be complemented by a new mobile Suicide Prevention Outreach Team (SPOT) team on hand to provide outreach to people in suicidal distress.  

“We know thoughts of suicide can be triggered by a painful experience - such as a divorce, unemployment, retirement or death of a loved one - and these mobile teams will support people where they live their day to day lives,” Ms Cooke added.

“The new team will combine clinical expertise and lived experience of suicide, and care for people at or near their homes – ensuring they stay connected with their family, friends and other valuable support networks,” Mrs Taylor said.

If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide or experiencing a personal crisis or distress, please seek help immediately by calling 000 or one of these services: 

Lifeline 13 11 14

Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467

NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511