Mental Health Commission of NSW

“Let’s talk about it.” That’s the theme for Mental Health Month 2024.

This year’s theme encourages inclusive discussions on a variety of topics related to mental health, empowering individuals to share their experiences and seek support. By fostering meaningful conversations and connections, we can promote understanding and support for mental health within our communities.

Do you know an individual or grassroots organisation that has made a positive impact in “breaking down barriers” and shown a commitment to hard-to-reach populations in mental health?

Sponsored by the Mental Health Commission of NSW. Nominations close this week - Sunday 8 September: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/24-cccaward

We’re hiring! Come join our team in Sydney CBD.

The Mental Health Commission of NSW are looking for a Senior Project Officer to join our Strategic Planning and Projects team. The position involves the development of whole-of-government strategic plans and frameworks designed to enhance community mental health and wellbeing. The successful candidate will play a significant role in commissioning and disseminating research and innovative initiatives that support systemic mental health reforms. The role also requires a focus on improving integration, coordination, and collaboration across government and broader mental health and social service systems.

If you are highly motivated, and keen to be part of team that makes a difference, you can find out more and apply: 🔗 bit.ly/mhc-careers.

Applications close Sunday 8 September 2024, 11:59 pm.

Know an amazing person or organisation that has made a difference in “Breaking down barriers”, by showing a commitment to hard-to-reach populations in mental health?

Nominate them for the Commissioner's Community Champion Award before Sunday 8 September: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/24-cccaward

Read about our Community Champions from last year:

👩 Individual category - bit.ly/parliamentary-showcase-23
👥 Organisation category - bit.ly/nannas-touch

Sponsored by the Mental Health Commission of NSW.

The Commission had our Advocacy & Reform team members attend the TheMHS Learning Network Inc. Conference in Canberra last week.

Senior Advisor Michael O'Connor delivered an insightful presentation on the experiences of Community Treatment Orders (CTOs) in New South Wales. Shedding light on the impacts of compulsory treatment, Michael drew on perspectives from those directly affected, their supporters, and service providers, offering recommendations for enhancing co-design activities within government frameworks.

We also had Acting NSW Mental Health Commissioner Deborah Howe join a session discussing "Mental Health Commissions: Difference, Common Ground and Change."

In light of recent natural disasters and challenges faced by NSW communities, including devastating bushfires and floods, it is more important than ever to address the mental health impacts of such events.

Through initiatives such as the Peer Navigation Project, which was designed to explore how individuals with lived experience of mental health issues could leverage their deep community connections and familiarity with local services. The rise of peer workers, who share their lived experience and community knowledge to support others, has proven to be instrumental in providing compassionate and community-oriented support. Learn more about the project at https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/peer-navigation-project.

This year, the Commission wants to recognise those who are “Breaking down barriers”, by showing a commitment to hard-to-reach populations in mental health.

Nominate a deserving individual or organisation for the Commissioner's Community Champion Award by Sunday 8 September: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/24-cccaward

Sponsored by the Mental Health Commission of NSW.

Nominations open for the 2024 Community Champion Award

Do you know someone making a difference in mental health and wellbeing in their community? Nominations are now open for the 2024 Commissioner's Community Champion Award, presented annually by the Mental Health Commission of NSW in partnership with Wayahead - Mental Health Association NSW.

This year, the Commissioner's Community Champion Award aims to recognise those who are “Breaking down barriers” – a community award for Agencies and individuals demonstrating you are accessing hard-to-reach populations.

Learn more and nominate today: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/news/nominations-open-2024-commissioners-community-champion-award

Sponsored by the Mental Health Commission of NSW.

Nominations open for the 2024 Commissioner's Community Champion Award

Yesterday, the Mental Health Commission of NSW hosted a webinar to launch Leading the change: a Toolkit to evaluate lived experience inclusion and leadership.

This toolkit provides practical tools and resources to support self-reflection and action planning in mental health and social services organisations, to elevate lived experience inclusion and leadership and better meet community needs. If you missed the webinar, you can now view the recording online on our website: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/news/leading-change-toolkit-evaluate-lived-experience-inclusion-and-leadership

Developed in partnership with BEING - Mental Health Consumers Ltd and Mental Health Carers NSW, the Leading the Change toolkit recognises the value of incorporating the knowledge and insight of people with lived experience into the mental health sector. Evidence shows that evaluating the perspectives of those with lived experience is essential at all levels of a service or program, especially at the leadership level and in decision-making.

Visit our website to access the toolkit: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/leading-the-change

Mental Health Commission of NSW Acting Commissioner Deborah Howe delivered the welcome address at today's Wayahead - Mental Health Association NSW Workplaces Annual Member’s Forum this morning. Deborah highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving better mental health and wellbeing outcomes for all.

At the Commission, we prioritise the voices of people with lived experience of mental health issues and their families, carers, and kinship groups in guiding our work. Workplace mental health and wellbeing play a crucial role in overall mental health. Our research shows meaningful employment plays a significant role in mental health recovery.

Wayahead Workplaces provides a valuable platform for diverse sectors to come together and exchange ideas on creating mentally healthy workplaces in Australia.

The Mental Health Commission of NSW funded BEING - Mental Health Consumers Ltd to develop a network for people with a personal lived experience of mental health issues in NSW. The BEING Lived Experience Network, BEING CONNECTED, is an online network of people with lived experience who want to participate in activities such as co-design groups, consultations, committees and working groups, or who would like to publicly share their story.

BEING’s new Lived Experience Network is a significant step towards embedding lived experience perspectives across the mental health system in NSW, aligning with the Commission's priorities outlined in Living Well in Focus 2020-2024. By participating in BEING CONNECTED, members can actively contribute to discussions, access relevant resources, stay informed on important news and events, and engage in opportunities to further develop their advocacy skills.

Learn more and join BEING CONNECTED to create a supportive community and make a difference in the mental health landscape in NSW: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/lived-experience-networks

Join us for the launch of Leading the Change: A Toolkit to evaluate lived experience inclusion and leadership next Tuesday, 20 August.

Evaluating lived experience inclusion and leadership in organisations is crucial for effective mental health and social services. Partnering with consumers and carers to include lived experience perspectives is essential for positive change.

Developed by the Mental Health Commission of NSW in partnership with BEING and Mental Health Carers NSW, this toolkit guides organisations to reflect on and develop their lived experience inclusion and leadership to better meet community needs.

See our website for details on how to join us at the launch of this important toolkit. Together, let's advance lived experience inclusion and leadership in mental health and social services.

🔗 Register now: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/event/leading-change-toolkit-evaluate-lived-experience-inclusion-and-leadership

The Mental Health Commission of NSW recently visited Lithgow as part of their regional visits, gaining insight into the challenges faced by the community and the successful approaches being employed to address them.

One standout organisation they visited was Lithgow High School, which has seen a significant increase in student support needs due to factors such as Covid, natural disasters and socio-economic decline. Despite these challenges, the school has prioritised holistic support through their Wellbeing Centre and training teachers in trauma-informed practices.

LHS has also invested in a paediatric clinic to provide accessible healthcare for students, but they are facing challenges in recruiting medical professionals. The school continues to play a critical welfare role in the community, providing not just education but also clothing and food support to students in need.

Overall, the visit highlighted the importance of investing in mental health and wellbeing support in schools, as well as the resilience and determination of the Lithgow community to address these challenges.

Learn more about the Commission's visits to Lithgow on our website: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/news/blue-mountains-community-visits-lithgow

Last night, the Mental Health Commission of NSW and The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) invited Dr Mark Horowitz, co-author of the Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines which outlines a new approach to weaning patients off antidepressants, benzodiazepines and gabapentinoids.

Facilitated by Dr Rebekah Hoffman, the panel shared their perspectives on the current use of psychotropic medicine, approaches, roles and experiences of deprescribing. We also heard from experts in the field including Professor Katharine Wallis, Dr Karen Spielman, and Anna King as they shared their insights and experiences on deprescribing and the difficulties of weaning off antidepressant medication.

Learn more about the session and see the presentation recording and slides available on our website: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/news/maudsley-deprescribing-guidelines-publication-practice

This Dry July, take the opportunity to reduce or quit alcohol use for the sake of your physical and mental health. Alcohol consumption can have a significant impact on mental wellbeing, so why not try cutting down and feeling the benefits?

See our Physical Health Care Guide for more tips on promoting overall wellness. https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/physical-health-care-guide

Do you have lived or living experience of su***de? Have you, or do you care for someone experiencing distress? Have you been bereaved by su***de?

The NSW Government is introducing new legislation to help prevent su***de.

Join consultations happening in your community lead by Su***de Prevention Australia and First Nations Co.

Learn more: https://www.su***depreventionaust.org/consultations-nsw-act/

Talking about death and dying can be hard. Crisis support services are available. Contact:

📞 Mental Health Line - 1800 011 511
📞 Lifeline - 13 11 14
📞 Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
📞 Su***de Call Back Service - 1300 659 467
📞 Beyond Blue - 1300 22 46 36
📞 Qlife – 1800 184 527 (available 3pm to midnight daily)
📞 13YARN – 13 92 76

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Join South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD) where leading advocates, practitioners, individuals with lived experience, and carers will come together to explore emerging trends, innovative approaches and stories that seek to transform mental health services and change individuals’ lives.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to hear from Mental Health Commission of NSW Deputy Commissioner Tim Heffernan, and enjoy a multimedia museum showcasing the college's history. Plus, they will be celebrating the college's 10-year anniversary with a delicious lunch provided. Secure your spot now: https://events.humanitix.com/recovery-and-wellbeing-college-transforming-mental-health-and-wellbeing-forum

SESLHD Recovery and Wellbeing College, Transforming Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum and 10 Year Anniversary Celebration | Humanitix Get tickets on Humanitix - SESLHD Recovery and Wellbeing College, Transforming Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum and 10 Year Anniversary Celebration hosted by SESLHD Recovery and Wellbeing College. St George Research and Education Centre, 4-10 South St, Kogarah NSW 2217, Australia. Thursday 25th July....

The Mental Health Commission of NSW recently visited Katoomba as part of a program of regional visits to gain insight into the challenges faced by the community. Seventeen different organisations in the Blue Mountains and Lithgow region shared their successful approaches to address these challenges.

One of the organisations making a significant impact in the Blue Mountains is the Blue Mountains City Council. Focusing on disaster recovery and mental health, they have provided support through libraries and other facilities.

Initiatives like family fun days and award-winning Birdie's Tree storybooks help build connections and resilience in the community. Learn more about the important work being done in the area: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/news/blue-mountains-community-visits-katoomba-1

Have your say. This is an opportunity for people with lived and living experience of suicidal distress, caring and bereavement to contribute to the draft legislation and ensure these voices are reflected in shaping NSW’s whole of government approach to su***de prevention.

The su***de prevention legislation aims to:
• embed the voices of people with lived and living experience of su***de in whole-of-government
• enable cross portfolio responsibility and accountability for su***de prevention in NSW.

If you have lived or living experience of su***de, your voice is important in helping shape this legislation.

Find out more and have your say by Sunday 18 August here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/have-your-say/nsw-su***de-prevention-legislation

Discussion paper:https://www.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-07/nsw-su***de-prevention-legislation-discussion-paper.pdf

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This International Non-Binary People's Day (celebrated on 14 July), we want to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse experiences and identities of non-binary individuals. Your unique perspectives and contributions enrich our communities. Here at the Commission, we support and affirm everyone's right to self-identify and express their gender freely. Let's continue to create a safe and inclusive world for all.

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Our submission to the 2024 review of the Mental Health Commission of NSW outlines 10 recommendations which outline our vision for the mental health and wellbeing of the people of NSW into the future. We believe in a whole-of-government approach, clear scope for the Commission, and the necessity of fit-for-purpose funding, resources, and powers.

Visit our website to learn more about the review and how we are working to strengthen mental health in NSW. https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/news/recommendations-our-future

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As we honour NAIDOC Week and the theme 'Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud.', we acknowledge the enduring strength and spirit of First Nations culture. The Commission is committed to supporting and promoting mental health within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Today we farewell our Commissioner, Catherine Lourey, and thank her for her contribution to improving the lives of people living with mental health issues and the services that support them.

Catherine joined the Mental Health Commission of NSW in 2015 taking on the role of Deputy Commissioner on a full -time basis in 2016 before being appointed Commissioner in 2017. Her legacy includes delivery of major strategic programs and projects including Living Well in Focus 2020-2024 and two su***de prevention frameworks and the release of the Lived Experience Framework, the peer work hub, peer work scholarships and, a national first, co-designing a lived experience monitoring framework for Shifting the Landscape for su***de prevention.

Catherine’s work reshaped the conversation about mental health and helped reduce the stigma associated with it.

Please join us in thanking Catherine for her leadership at the Commission and take the time to congratulate her on her accomplishments.

NSW Mental Health Director System Reform Deborah Howe, along with Deputy Commissioners Pamela Rutledge and Daniel Angus, recently visited The Street University in Katoomba to witness the unique intervention services offered to local youth.

The visit by the Commission to Street University is part of a larger program of regional visits aimed at gaining insights into the work of various organisations in the Blue Mountains and Lithgow regions.

The innovative approach of Street University, funded by Wentworth Healthcare through the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, has been successful in reaching young people who may otherwise self-exclude from traditional mental health services. Deputy Commissioner Daniel Angus highlighted the importance of connecting with other services to address mental health challenges in the region, while Deborah Howe emphasised the valuable insights gained to inform the development of a NSW-wide mental health strategy.

Read more about the visit on our website: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/news/mental-health-commission-visits-katoomba-street-university

The Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District cares for 384,000 people living across the region and this was the destination for the Mental Health Commission of NSW’s most recent community visits.

The unique challenges faced by people in the Blue Mountains, from natural disasters to difficulty of access to clinical specialists, were discussed during the recent visit by the Commission.

Read all about it in our latest article: https://www.nswmentalhealthcommission.com.au/news/engaging-regional-mental-health-services

Your mental health matters, no matter your language or culture. The Transcultural Mental Health Line offers support for your needs. Call 1800 648 911 Monday to Friday, 9am - 4:30pm, for guidance, service navigation, and assistance in multiple languages.

Learn more: https://www.dhi.health.nsw.gov.au/transcultural-mental-health-centre-tmhc/transcultural-mental-health-line

We’re hiring! Come join our team in Sydney CBD.

We are looking for a Senior Policy Advisor to join our Systems Monitoring and Reporting team. The Senior Project Advisor provides expert qualitative and quantitative data analysis advice and is responsible for monitoring and reporting on the implementation of government frameworks on mental health reform and strategies developed by the Commission. The role will also develop, and lead projects identified in the Commission’s Strategic Plan and the annual business plan.

If you are highly motivated, and keen to be part of team that makes a difference, you can find out more and apply: bit.ly/mhc-careers.

Applications close Thursday 20 June 2024, 11:59 pm.

The Mental Health Commission of NSW celebrates Refugee Week by acknowledging the strength, resilience, and unity of refugees in their search for freedom. This year's theme, "Finding Freedom", highlights the importance of family bonds in providing solace and support.

Mental health plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging for refugees. Let's come together to honour the strength and resilience of refugees and the support their families provide during challenging times.

For more support, check out STARTTS – an organisation that provides psychological treatment and support to help refugees heal from trauma and rebuild their lives in Australia. Visit https://www.startts.org.au/ for more information.

How can we better connect with the men in our lives to improve their mental health? It's a question worth exploring during Men's Health Week.

For valuable insights and stories, check out the It's a Mind Field podcast (https://iamf.org.au/). In their episodes on Su***de & Bereavement (S2E2) and Loneliness (S2E3), you'll hear powerful firsthand accounts and expert perspectives on these important issues.

Also make sure to tune into The Men's Mental Health Show in the Blue Mountains (https://open.spotify.com/show/68By0HgoRAY3lfMo21pGkX) for a weekly exploration of mental health issues facing men.

Through open discussions and guest speakers with firsthand experience in conditions like Bipolar, Autism, Anxiety, and PTSD, the team aim to help men understand their thoughts and emotions. Their show also features experts in Men's Mental Health to provide insights and guidance.

Tune in to join the conversation and share your opinions!

Mental health matters for men too. Did you know that su***de is the leading killer of men under 55 in Australia, with 7 men taking their lives every day? 3 out of 4 su***des in Australia are men.

Let's break the stigma and prioritise men's mental health this Men's Health Week. Ask questions, actively listen, encourage action and check in regularly.

Australian Men's Health Forum