Young people on the Central Coast and across NSW will have access to expanded digital mental health support thanks to a $1.5M investment from the NSW Government.
The Moderated Online Social Therapy (MOST) platform, designed by youth mental health organisation Orygen, will be embedded in eight eligible youth mental health services across NSW between now and June 30, 2022.
Minister for Mental Health, Bronnie Taylor, said the evidence-based digital intervention was designed to provide instant access to specialist support for people during a challenging time.
“This is all about connecting young people with online resources that they can use to improve their mental health and wellbeing as well as connecting them with a network of peers and mental health clinicians,” she said.
“For those who need more intensive support, the platform will also help young people engage with clinical services face-to-face for immediate and ongoing mental health support.”
Taylor said the application would also lighten the load for clinical services which have been inundated by increased demand.
“We know that services are under pressure – young people will currently wait between six and eight weeks for a psychologist appointment at headspace – so it’s vital we continue to connect young people to a range of help,” she said.
The MOST platform can be accessed 24/7 from a range of devices including mobile phones, tablets and desktop computers.
Orygen Executive Director, Professor Patrick McGorry, said MOST is changing the way mental health services are provided by connecting digital mental health technology with clinical services to address gaps in existing care models, provide on-demand support and sustain real life recovery for young people.
“It is exciting that with the support of the NSW Government we can now offer this world-leading digital mental health service to young people across the state,” he said.
If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide or is 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.
Source:
Media release, Sep 12
Minister for Mental Health, Bronnie Taylor