Mental Illness Fellowship NQ Inc Issue: APRIL / MAY 2014

159 Kings Road

Pimlico QLD 4812

PO Box 979

Hyde Park QLD 4812

Tel: (07) 4725 3664

Fax: (07) 4725 3819

Email: townsville@mifnq.org.au

www.mifnq.org.au

MIFNQ reserves the right to edit articles for publication.

The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of MIFNQ.

Education & Training Manager and long time MIFNQ champion Philippa Harris with President Bob James.

MINFQ’s New Headquarters in Townsville Jeremy Audas / Mar 26 2014

Despite the long wait for our new MIFNQ headquarters building to come to fruition our enthusiasm for a brand new facility has not waned. In fact it is essential that MIFNQ move to new premises in Townsville in order for us to fulfil our mission. We cannot recruit to new positions and counsellors have to juggle appointments to ensure a private counselling space is available. We don’t have a meeting space for staff or a kitchen where staff can sit to eat lunch. Clubhouse and Day to Day Living Program numbers are also growing and downstairs at 159 Kings Road is overflowing with activity. But at long last the wait is over; construction commenced on March 3. We anticipate that the building will be ready to occupy by the end of the 2014 calendar year.

The building is a contemporary design with an energy saving focus and provides flexible spaces for people to meet, run workshops and events as well providing the quality of accommodation our staff needs in order to work effectively. Dedicated counselling rooms, a conference room and library, offices for staff as well as a multipurpose open plan space complete with kitchen facilities all with disability access and security systems built in. The grounds will be fully landscaped and there is plenty of parking and a bus route is nearby. We do have plans for our existing building on Kings Road. Once we have moved into the new premises Kings Road will become Townsville’s first Clubhouse premises and a focus for the development of a full time Clubhouse facility to serve the needs of Townsville residents.

The new building is situated on the corner of Cambridge St and Palmerston St in Vincent on Qld Health land over which MIFNQ has a long term lease at peppercorn rent. The Federal Government’s Health and Hospital Fund is providing a grant for construction and many hours of work have been put into the project planning and architectural design by our architect and friend Ken Tippett whose ongoing support for MIFNQ is deeply appreciated by all concerned. And of course we should also thank Andy Froggatt, my predecessor, for initiating the project. You will see more about the new building in coming editions of Northern Voices.

Page 2 of 20

The Physical Health of People Living with a Mental Illness People with severe mental illness (SMI), such as schizophrenia and mood disorders, have much higher rates of physical illness than the general population. They also have physical health problems that often remain undetected or untreated. Up to 50% of people with SMI have identified medical disorders which frequently exacerbate their psychiatric condition. The presence of a greater number of physical health problems can also contribute to more severe psychosis and depression. Poor physical health is associated with poorer mental health.

Many health care systems do not adequately provide an integrated approach for physical and mental health care. Generally mental health care is provided by one organisation and physical health care from a different provider. One condition may be receiving adequate attention while the others are not. The consequences of fragmented or incomplete care are all too often a lower life expectancy and a poorer quality of life

Mortality

People with SMI are reported to have a life expectancy of up to 25 years less than that of the general population. Schizophrenia has been described as a “life shortening disease”. Death rates from all main causes are higher in people with mental illness. Although suicide accounts for the highest relative risk of mortality (up to 20 times more common than in the general population), approximately three-quarters of the premature deaths of people with SMI are caused by physical illness.

Physical Illness

The most common illnesses experienced by people with SMI include cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, respiratory illness and obesity related diseases. These diseases occur at rates much higher than the general population, and contribute to the high morbidity and mortality seen in people with SMI.

These diseases not only occur more frequently in people with SMI than the general population, but they also occur at an earlier age, are more severe, and lead to earlier death. For example:

31% of people with schizophrenia and coronary heart disease (CHD) are

diagnosed under the age of 55, compared with 18% of others with CHD.

After five years, and adjusting for age, 22% of people with CHD who have

schizophrenia have died compared with 8% of people with no SMI.

41% of people with schizophrenia and diabetes are diagnosed under the

age of 55, compared with 30% of others with diabetes. After five years,

19% of people with diabetes who have schizophrenia have died

compared with 9% of people with no SMI.

21% of people with schizophrenia who have a stroke are under 55,

compared with 11% of others who have a stroke. After five years, 28% of

people who have had a stroke and who also have schizophrenia have

died, compared with 12% of people with no SMI.

23% of people with schizophrenia and respiratory disease are diagnosed

before the age of 55, compared with 17% of others with respiratory

disease. After five years, 28% of people with respiratory disease or

chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder who also have schizophrenia

have died, compared with 15% of people with no SMI.

Cancer accounts for a large proportion of deaths among people with schizophrenia; indeed, the World Federation for Mental Health has reported that cancers, especially breast cancer and lung cancer, are the second most common cause of death in people with schizophrenia. This could be associated with the difficulty they have with accessing health care, including cancer screening programmes

Where to Go for Help

Kids Helpline

Free, private & confidential telephone & online counseling service specifically for young people aged between 5 and 25.

Phone 24/7 - 1800 55 1800

Eheadspace

Provides online & telephone support and counseling to young people aged between 12 and 25. Available 9AM-1AM AEST - 1800 650 890

Lifeline

24 hour crisis support 13 11 14

Online counseling available 8AM-midnight

Contact Us Email: livingproof@mifnq.org.au

Facebook: Living Proof – Positive Stories of Mental Illness

Twitter: LivingProofQLD

Phone: 1800 455 455

Townsville Philippa Harris, Queensland Education & Training Manager

P: 07 4725 3664

Street Address: 159 Kings Road,

PIMLICO Q 4812

Postal Address: PO Box 979

HYDE PARK Q 4812

Regional Queensland Alison Fairleigh, State Manager

P: 07 4725 3664

E: AFairleigh@mifnq.org.au

Sunshine Coast Judy Kiellerup, Regional Coordinator (SQ)

P: 07 5442 1651

Postal Address: PO Box 5080

NAMBOUR Q 4560

CHAT ONLINE

CHAT ONLINE

CHAT ONLINE

Page 3 of 20

Entertainment Book Campaign

Help raise funds for the Mental Illness Fellowship NQ by purchasing an Entertainment Book from our Townsville Office.

Entertainment™ Memberships are packed with hundreds of up to 50% off and 2-for-1 offers for the best local restaurants, cafés, attractions, hotel accommodation, travel and much more!

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Order your new 2014 | 2015 Entertainment™ Membership from Mental Illness Fellowship North Queensland Inc and 20% of your Membership purchase goes towards Community Programme.

Townsville $60

Order either Membership type before April 1, and you'll receive additional Bonus Offers which you can use straight away!

Please remember to reference Mental Illness Fellowship North Queensland Inc

when registering your 2014 | 2015 Entertainment™ Membership.

In this Edition

MINFQ’s New Headquarters in Townsville ........................................... 1

The Physical Health of People Living with a Mental Illness ........ 2

Entertainment Book....................... 3

CEO’s Update ..................................... 4

Committee Chatter ......................... 5

Principles of Looking After Ourselves for the Family, Friends and Carers. ......................................... 6

Choir of Unheard Voices Update ................................................................. 7

Choral Festival at the Mackay Entertainment Centre ................... 7

Eating Better – The Nourish 2 Flourish Program ............................ 7

Townsville Day to Day Living & Clubhouse ............................................ 8

Job Satisfaction at MIFNQ ........... 9

Client Feedback in Cairns ............ 9

Jacqueline Conroy is Awarded an Academic Medal ........................ 9

Diabetes and Mental Health Expo ....................................................... 9

Criticism for Mental Health Road Show ....................................... 10

Routine is Important for Your Mental Health ................................ 11

Australians Pay More for Health Care than France .......................... 12

Video Conferencing Effective in Mental Health Services Delivery .............................................................. 13

Survey Finds More People Willing to Disclose Mental Health Problems ........................... 14

Calendar of Events ....................... 15

Reducing Anxiety with a Smartphone App ........................... 16

Australia's Mental Health System Not Meeting Demand, Should Focus on Self-Help: Report ................................................ 17

Coffee Break .................................... 18

Mi Networks AUSTRALIA .......... 19

Membership Application Form .............................................................. 20

The traditional Entertainment™

Book Membership

Entertainment™ Book offers are

redeemed via Entertainment™ Gold Card and Vouchers.

The new Entertainment™

Digital Membership

Puts the value of the Entertainment™

Book in your Apple or Android device. Search for businesses, show

your phone to redeem and keep track of your savings.

Visit the webpage to pre-order your book online:

www.entertainmentbook.com.au/orderbooks/2700u79

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MIFNQ Office Locations

TOWNSVILLE (Head Office)

159 Kings Rd, Pimlico Q 4812

PO Box 979 Hyde Park Q 4812

P: (07) 4725 3664

F: (07) 4725 3819

E: townsville@mifnq.org.au

FREE CALL: 1800 455 455

MACKAY

14-16 Wood St, Mackay Q 4740

PO Box 729 Mackay Q 4740

P: (07) 4041 2543 P: (07) 4951 2955

F: (07) 4953 0509

E: mackay@mifnq.org.au

CAIRNS

Suite 13,129a Lake St, Cairns Q 4870

PO Box 816 North Cairns Q 4870

F: (07) 4041 2872

E: cairns@mifnq.org.au

SUNSHINE COAST

Living Proof

PO Box 5080 Nambour Q 4560

P: (07) 5442 1651

F: (07) 5442 1651

E: coolum@mifnq.org.au

Jeremy Audas,

CEO

CEO’s Update

In this edition I am drawing on a paper MIFNQ has been circulating to its friends and partners in Townsville, Mackay and Cairns. It is about how MIFNQ and MIFA members aim to support the development of a strong, collaborative and recovery oriented approach to working together. This approach reflects MIFNQ’s values and mission and how we see the person at the centre of the work we do. None of us has everything a person needs for the journey on their path to recovery but together we do.

The non-government mental health sector and related community services sectors are committed to working better together for improved outcomes, through better collaborative, integrated and connected responses. Whether we are focussed on better place-based responses to interrelated health and community services outcomes, or targeted responses to particular needs across Townsville, Cairns and Mackay, the non-government sector understands the need for greater collective impact across government, the non-government sector, business and communities.

In Central, North and Far North Queensland, several organisations have agreed to a commitment to work together to improve outcomes for people through better service design and delivery; to reduce fragmentation; and to improve collaboration, integration and efficiencies. Included in this group are organisations that work across mental health and other health spheres; housing and homelessness; employment; people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; academia and research; child protection and family support; and rural and remote communities across Queensland.

Our approach is based on the following principles:

Directed by a shared vision based on individuals’ and families’ outcomes and recovery

Respect, openness and transparency between partners and stakeholders

Respect for the autonomy and independence of all organisations and their right to enter into or withdraw from any collaborative process or partnership at any time

Collaboration, co-design and collective impact around shared vision, service models and action planning

A culture of quality practice

A focus on shared outcomes measurement, evaluation and evidence

Leveraging existing services and funding across mental health and related community services to create greater capacity to respond to identified needs

Open, frank and robust communication and problem-solving

This commitment to collaboration exists outside of any tendering or funding contracts. By partnering with organisations that have made this commitment to collective impact, we can be assured that the participating organisations will work together, with the funder and other stakeholders, to maximise the benefits that might otherwise come from a more exclusive and controlled model. The participating organisations value their autonomy and independence and their connections to their communities and constituents. We are committed to building the capacity of a viable and diverse sector. We offer the strength of local autonomy with the power of collective impact through relationships with MIFA members and our local partners.

Jeremy Audas

Chief Executive Officer

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MIFNQ Management

Committee

President Bob James

Vice-President (vacant)

Secretary Jenny Chapman

Treasurer Sandra Hubert

Committee

Members Alf Musumeci

Karyn Weller

Bruce Rampton

Promoting Recovery Through Services in the

Community

Committee Chatter

How wonderful it is when seasons change, and nature renews her plants and animals, too, give birth to new generations. As I sit in the gloom of the last gasp of our [not very] wet season, I can feel the lifting of the gloom that as filled this column over the recent many months.

At last, we can begin to see some of the fruits of the efforts of so many people, as the Cairns Clubhouse project strides into operation, the newer and bigger Townsville building is commenced, and the Townsville Clubhouse initiative develops and will be a beneficiary of the Fellowship’s move to its new building as space becomes available at our wonderful old Kings Road building. There are many more projects that are likely to change the way we operate and our ability to reach more people, in Cairns, Mackay and Townsville, and in many places between and west.

And all of this has been achieved in an uncertain environment of new governments at State and National levels, with all the bluster of cost-cutting and smaller government that seemed to add to the gloom of 2013.

These changes are to be looked forward to, like the renewal brought about by a change of seasons. There are opportunities for us to grow and do more for the people we serve.

Together with our many partner organisations, we have paved the way to seize opportunities to increase the reach of the good work we have always done. We are going through processes which involve collaboration at State and National levels as well as local, which have mobilised the talents and skills of our different organisations to present to governments plans to benefit our people in a way that these new governments understand and appreciate.

We are looking to grow, not wither, with the aid of the many other organisations with which we share great aims to serve and to grow, to serve more. We will increase our reach to bring services to many who are just too far from the big capital cities and even from the regional capitals like Townsville.

So, our ‘winter’ is over. As the wet season recedes, and our joint efforts come together, so will our gloom diminish.

The coming year will give us reason to wipe away the gloom.

Bob James

President

Bob James,

President

Page 6 of 20

Gathering at Riverway in Townsville before the commencement of the Ride

Principles of Looking After Ourselves for the Family, Friends and Carers.

Lyn Tyson / Mar 27 2014

None of these principles are simple to do, but the principles themselves, are simple.

We can learn and work together as a family.

I can only take responsibility for my own learning, but I can share what I learn with my family. Sometimes, no-one else seems to want to know. There is a time for everything; and everything has it’s time.

1. Accepting that my loved one has mental illness is the first step to coping.

2. To accept that I have no control over this mental illness.

3. To understand and accept that I have no control over the person whom I love who has the mental health issue

4. To understand and accept I do have control over my own thoughts, feelings, reactions, and actions.

5. To accept and learn to understand that there is grief around mental illness.

6. To let go of any feelings of guilt which I may be harbouring, fostering or accepting concerning this mental health issue/illness and/or its effects.

7. To understand and accept that this mental illness has had a huge impact on all the members of my family, friends, and neighbours. And that includes my loved one too.

8. To acknowledge and understand that mental illness affects everyone in the community.

9. To accept that I will make mistakes in trying to cope with the effects of the mental illness on everyone in the family.

10. To realise and understand that everyone in the family, who wants to, needs to know as much as possible about mental illness and what the family and their loved one are specifically trying to cope with.

11. To choose to be happy and healthy.

12. To ensure and understand that expectations I might have are realistic and not ones which no-one can meet.

13. I believe that everyone has inner strengths and resources which will help all of us through the difficult times, and help to build a smoother pathway for everyone in the family including ME and our loved one.

14. I acknowledge and accept the strengths and value of this family.

15. I accept a commitment to ensuring the ongoing knowledge and skill development of myself.

16. I know and accept that everyone, including me, needs information and education about mental illness its effects, how to cope with it and with the consequences of the illness on our loved ones.

Townsville Black Dog Ride

Philippa Harris / Mar 25 2014

The Black Dog Riders from Townsville Motorcycle Clubs set off on Sunday 23rd March for a ‘fun ride’ to Giru and back via Woodstock to raise funds for suicide prevention and intervention services Life Line and Mental Health First Aid Australia. Local Premier Master Instructor and Fellowship staff member, Philippa Harris spoke to the 200 motorcycle enthusiasts taking part about the benefits of doing the MHFA course in providing a framework for action by ordinary people when concerned about the mental health and wellbeing of a mate. ‘Most people want to help but hold back for fear of saying the wrong thing’ she said. ‘The MHFA course gives people the confidence to speak about mental health problems and the services and supports available in the community.’ The Townsville ride was one of hundreds taking place across Australia, raising funds for this important cause.

Philippa Harris with the organizer of the Black Dog Ride, Ben Price and Mayor Jenny Hill.

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Choir of Unheard Voices Update Margaret Ward / Mar 27 2014

The Choir has been provided workshops in singing and performing at Blue care Respite

Centre in preparation for a performance in May when Blue Care is celebrating their 50th Anniversary. One of the members has written a song ‘Little Miracles’ celebrating the years of service that Blue Care has given to the community. This will be performed by the choir.

The Choir also ran a karaoke session for the members of Blue Care and one of our members dressed in his Elvis gear and wooed us with his Elvis renditions.

Helen said that the most incredible thing about being at Blue care is seeing the faces of the blue care members and how excited they are. They love to sing and it brings them such joy.

One of the choir members has also started guitar lessons for others and we have five people who are learning to play.

Choral Festival at the Mackay Entertainment Centre Wayne Fremantle / Mar 26 2014

G’day, my name’s Wayne. When the Choir of Unheard Voices was asked to be part of the choral festival, I jumped at the chance, especially when I found out we were to be performing at the Mackay Entertainment & Community centre (MECC). We were to be singing with many other vocal groups including children from many of the schools around the area. Around five hundred plus children and almost another two hundred plus adults and high school students made for one massive “super group”.

Rehearsals were once a week at MIFNQ and on the Sunday before the concert at the Mercy college Hall. The concert at the MECC was on the Monday following. The concert itself was great in so many ways.

I have been to many concerts, from John Waters to the Platters, from Billy Thorpe & the Aztecs, to Diesel, but up to now I’ve only experienced the wonder and appreciation of a good song from only one direction(pun intended), and the experience of singing to a full packed audience blew me away.

In the words of Jack Thompson, “I felt like that little silver doggie on the front of a Mack truck!” I heartily recommend the experience to anyone contemplating this.

Eating Better – The Nourish 2 Flourish Program Margaret Ward / Mar 26 2014

Currently on Monday mornings from 10am-12 noon we have a Nourish to Flourish program here at MIFNQ Mackay. They are teaching us to eat in a healthier manner. This group is run by a kitchen coach who shows us a variety of natural energy foods that can be made with fruit and veggies. These recipes show us how you can eat healthy tasty foods instead of junk food that’s not supposed to be real good for your body and sucks you of energy. Hopefully we can put this information into practice.

Schizophrenia Awareness Week

11th – 17th May, 2014 Alison Fairleigh / Mar 26 2014

Each year MIFNQ, together with the Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia and the Fellowships around the nation, host Schizophrenia Awareness Week (SAW). It provides an opportunity to raise community awareness of schizophrenia and mental illness in general.

In 2014, MIFNQ’s Alison Fairleigh is chairing the National Working Group for Schizophrenia Awareness Week where the theme will focus on CARERS of people with mental illness.

Carers of people with mental illness are people who provide UNPAID physical, practical or emotional support to a family member, neighbour, colleague or friend with mental illness. Carers support their loved one to participate meaningfully in community life without discrimination, stigma or exclusion.

The aims for SAW 2014 are:

• Raise community awareness

of the role and contribution

carers make to the

community

• Inform carers of the services,

entitlements, events and

policies that are available.

• Target the media to

strengthen community

understanding through more

informed reporting

This will be achieved through a national media campaign and the production of a brand-new, thirty second video to be shared through a national digital and social media campaign.

In addition, each state and territory Fellowship will conduct a host of local events to raise community awareness of the impact of mental illness on families and carers, and address stigma in the local community.

Page 8 of 20

Greg building the Bunnings BBQ for the Townsville Clubhouse..

Clubhouse BBQ Lunch in Townsville

Townsville Day to Day Living & Clubhouse Sally Thain / Mar 25 2014

Our Day to Day Living program is going from strength to strength in 2014. We have had continued success with activities such as our Discovering Art with Cassandra Roberts. Cassandra has helped members of Day to Day Living in discovering ways to express themselves through a variety of art mediums. Some of the things covered include working with wire, creating Valentine’s Day cards and making puppets. Coming up in April, Cassandra has planned the use of Origami to create a special box for members or someone special in their lives. There will also be time dedicated to Easter creations. Cassandra’s Art group is very popular with a full house each Tuesday morning.

Members are also enjoying the Computer Skill run by Jenny Ryan and are achieving some great things. The Swimming/ Aqua Aerobics/ Coffee day on Fridays is a resounding success and has encouraged members to go to the pool on their own and engage with their community.

Staff of Day to Day Living continue to visit the Acute Mental Health Unit at the hospital and have had quite a number of patients from AMHU connect with us at Kings Road. The goal of the AMHU visits is to build a bridge for people upon discharge so they are aware of somewhere to go and familiar friendly faces to greet them when they get there.

Without a doubt our biggest day is our Clubhouse Thursday. There have been so many achievements from this group! Just to name a few we have created an amazing garden in the backyard of the premises at Kings Road. We have five garden beds growing vegies, member contribution to this has been outstanding. Our Hospitality group makes a delicious and healthy meal each week for us all to share and the Admin groups continue to WOW everyone with their wonderful newsletters. We have also recently obtained a donation from Bunning’s which has enabled us to get a brand new BBQ!!! The test run on the 20th of March was very successful. All these achievements are only possible because of the commitment and hard work from our members. They have all done amazing work in assisting the Clubhouse to grow.

Coming up in the next few months we have some exciting programs namely a Chill Out afternoon to learn relaxation techniques and ways to deal with stress, a Healthy Cooking Group to help people make healthy and affordable meals for themselves. Our swimming day will instead be a walking/coffee day for winter so we are still exercising and connecting with our community. We are also starting a Creative Writing group which will be a great way for people to express themselves.

If you have enquires regarding the Day to Day Living Program please do not hesitate to contact Sally Thain on 4725 3664.

Day to Day Living Computer Course in Townsville

Jenny Ryan / Mar 21 2014

When I was getting ready to begin the first two weeks of the course, I was wracking my brains for some sort of Lesson Plan for the students.

When the first Tuesday arrived, all my plans went down the tube. I hadn’t taken into account that my students were adults and all had different levels of computer skills.

Not a problem! I found out where they were at and what it was they wanted to learn/practice on the computer. It turned out that Leanne was part the way through a correspondence Business Course and she needed to catch up with her work. We both learnt something there like mail merge etc. Paul was happy to check out the job centres and apply for jobs and Colleen practiced her typing and Internet skills.

I am in the middle of the third course now and have some new students like Janelle and Kylie and some repeaters. We have a bit of fun while we’re at it and I believe that it’s been a hit with the D2D Living members.

Jenny with Leanne who has recently completed the course, seen here with her Certificate of Completion.

Paul and Colleen who have also completed the course.

Page 9 of 20

Jacqueline Conroy with her award.

Job Satisfaction at MIFNQ Janice Tiller / Mar 25 2014

Six weeks ago I returned to work at MIFNQ cairns Carers Hub.

For the three months prior I had a position in Pormpuraaw Community as Community Services Manager. The position in Pormpuraaw provided me with some of the most marvellous experiences and learning’s I have had in both my professional and personal life lessons I will always appreciate and hopefully reflect on from time to time.

My return to MIFNQ has been very worthwhile for me reinforced the benefits of Job Satisfaction. I also have an even greater appreciation for the work done by MIFNQ and know that the work done truly does make a difference.

Australia is a very diverse and large country and I would encourage all who have an opportunity to experience this diversity to take the opportunity to broaden their horizons

Client Feedback in Cairns I just wanted to give you and your service some feedback. I have a client who I was in contact with today and whom I had referred to your service comment that

‘How invaluable the service had been to her’ and that ‘it was just a fantastic service to have….I don’t know what I would have done without it and the counsellors there’.

I know sometimes as workers within this sector; we quite often do not realise what a difference we make in our clients lives. In my client’s case, the Mental Health Fellowship has made a significant impact and difference to her life. She now has tools, information and connections to support networks within Cairns that she may not otherwise have had.

Hello Janice

Just sending a big thank you to you and Louise. We really appreciated you taking the time to come along and share with us. Your tips for assisting young people and anyone to deal with grief were great and I am sure people will be making contact with Louise to access her in school program.

Jacqueline Conroy is Awarded an Academic Medal – Congratulations!!! Jacqueline Conroy, Counsellor in the MIFNQ Cairns office was awarded a Masters Social Work (Professional Qualifying) at the James Cook University Graduation Ceremony in Cairns this week. Jacqueline was also awarded the Academic Medal for highest achievement of the Masters Social Work Course Work cohort.

Jacqueline completed her final placement for the Masters at MIFNQ – Cairns Mental Health Carers Hub, during this time she developed a Borderline Personality Disorder Family Educare Program.

Diabetes and Mental Health Expo Glenda Blackwell / Mar 28 2014

Glenda presented a talk on Diabetes and Mental Health at the recent Diabetes Expo in Ayr and also promoted the Assisting Families and PeerZone programs that we offer at MIFNQ. The day was a great success. A range of services were represented from podiatry, exercise and diet and mental and physical health and there was a good response from the public.

New Building for Cairns Clubhouse

Jeremy Audas / Mar 26 2014

As mentioned in the CEO’s column working together with our partners paves the way for the development of better services for people with mental health concerns and their families and carers. A fine example of this is our Cairns Clubhouse initiative where we are engaged with a wide range of key organisations to establish the first Clubhouse in Cairns. This work is driven by the Cairns Clubhouse Steering Committee chaired by Justice Jim Henry and supported through funding from the Federal Department of Health. I must thank the Federal Member for Leichardt, the Honourable Warren Entsch, for his unstinting support for the Clubhouse and the Cairns Mental Health Carers Hub. In fact without our local member’s support we would not have funding for the establishment of the Clubhouse or the ongoing operation of the Carers Hub.

Through the work of the Clubhouse steering committee MIFNQ has secured premises at 208 McLeod St as the very first home of the Cairns Clubhouse. It gets better though because MIFNQ and Aftercare, both members of the Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia, are co-locating in this building. Clubhouse on the ground floor and Aftercare’s Personal Helpers and Mentors Service (PHaMS) located on the top floor. Not only does this mean we can share some resources and back of house functions but we will also have mutual clients who will benefit from the arrangement.

By the end of this financial year I expect the Cairns Clubhouse to be operating with a group of founding members with its own Director and staff and with already established connections into the Cairns community through the good work of the steering committee and MIFNQ staff

Page 10 of 20

Criticism for Mental Health Road Show

abc.net.au/news / Feb 28 2014

A national tour of regional Australia by mental health organisation, Beyondblue has attracted criticism from prominent mental health advocates.

Beyondblue launched its 16-month road show this week, aiming to address issues like depression and anxiety in rural areas.

Former Australian of the year and mental health expert, Patrick McGorry says the bus tour isn't likely to do any more than create awareness of mental health.

"We've seen that with youth mental health, we had to develop a special stream of care called Headspace, which provides a one stop shop for young people," Professor McGorry said.

"But the same principle applies for people in different communities in rural and regional Australia, where you can't just expect the same style and culture and set of attitudes in a service will work in those areas in the same way as they work in the inner cities of Sydney and Melbourne."

Former Queensland rural woman of the year, Alison Fairleigh, from the Mental Illness Fellowship in north Queensland agrees.

"A road show coming in and then they leave again, it really doesn't solve a lot of the issues that we have and it certainly is not the method that people within a lot of rural settings feel comfortable to go and seek information or seek help," she said.

"A great big bus that yells and screams mental health is not the way that we address stigma within our rural communities and a lot of people are going to feel very reluctant to approach."

Professor McGorry says government needs to fund a multi-disciplined and multi-skilled approach to mental health in rural areas.

"For example, in a rural area there might be a general practitioner, or if you're lucky a rural counsellor or two, but that's just not acceptable really in terms of quality," he said.

"Even with the best will in the world it's not going to really meet the needs."

The chief executive of Beyondblue, Kate Carnell has defended any criticism of the organisation's road show.

"We're partnering with Medicare locals right around Australia, all 61 of them, to focus on what the needs are particular areas," she said.

"So it's absolutely true that the requirements and mental health issues in parts of Australia are quite different.

"The road show activities aren't just sort of parking and saying, 'come up here'. What we're doing is we're having community based events: community barbecues, school breakfast assemblies, youth street parties and then meetings with local communities.

"We're focussing quite heavily on mental health friendly workplaces.

"So we'll be having meetings with local Chambers of Commerce, areas that have lots of mums and bubs we'll be having lots of morning teas with new parents to talk about things like post natal depression.

"So there's a range of different things that we'll be doing in different areas but we will also be having the bus out there for people who want to come and have a chat and learn a little bit more from our professional staff. That'll be available too.

Leukaemia Foundation World’s Greatest Shave

Jenny Ryan / Mar 21 2014

I had been given, as a gift, purple hair dye. Everyone knows of my partiality to purple so it was given as a joke. I was thinking about whether to do it when one evening while on the computer at home, I came across the World’s Greatest Shave/Colour for the Leukaemia Foundation. It brought back memories of Walter Humphries who used to come to MIFNQ and always helped and joined in the fun of SAW, Christmas lights tour etc.

When Philippa Harris told me, a couple of years ago now I think, that Walter had leukaemia, it broke my heart. We would visit him in palliative care and he and I used to dream about the boat he was going to build when he got better and then the two of us would sail off into the sunset. I think he went into remission because they let him out but after a couple of weeks he disappeared and I was later informed that he’d passed away. If anyone can give me any info on Walter, I’d be extremely thankful.

Back to the Shave, I decided if I was going to do something that silly, I might as well do it for a good reason. So, I signed up, coloured my hair and set about raising some money. My goal was $500 but I don’t think I quite made it but the staff and D2D Living members chipped in and on Thursday 13th March, we had a Purple Clubhouse Day. Everyone was so supportive, it brought tears to my eyes. I also got donations from my wonderful friends at Life Church.

To all the people who sponsored me, no matter if it was $1 or $100, I would like to say thank you and bless you for helping support this ever so important cause and making the lives of leukaemia sufferers, children and adults a

little bit better.

Mental health advocates, including former Australian of the Year, Professor Patrick McGorry, say Beyondblue needs to rethink the way it spends its funding on projects in rural and regional areas.

Jenny Ryan with some of her Shave for a Cure sponsors.

Page 11 of 20

Routine is Important for Your Mental Health fremonttribune.com/news / Mar 12 2014

I grew up on a farm. I recall how my grandparents had set times to eat. There was breakfast, dinner, lunch and supper time.

Each of these meals had a set time at which we were to arrive at the table and eat with the family. Even if we were in the field, lunch would either be served at the house or out in the field as the women would bring the lunch out and all operations would stop to eat the sandwiches, cookies, Kool-Aid and whatever other kind of goodies they had prepared.

This tradition set a pattern for the day. Usually we were to bed after the 10 o’clock news and would wake up at dawn. Thus, a pattern or routine was established.

When working with people with mental health or drug and alcohol problems I frequently find individuals who do not have such a set pattern of living. This seems to contribute to their problems. Let me explain.

For the people with mental health issues often there is no set routine or schedule in their lives which leads to boredom and sometimes isolation. Often I hear of individuals who stay up late and sleep into the afternoon with no set agenda for the day.

This can be unhealthy in many ways. To lead a healthy mental and emotional life one must find time to set schedule. It is known that individuals with ADHD need a set pattern to alleviate the symptoms of ADHD. Children who know what to expect from day to day experience less anxiety. The same is true of adults.

Good sleeping habits contribute to good mental health. If you are on medication, it is important to take it at the same time each day. So if you schedule your medication around your sleep schedule and your sleep schedule is inconsistent, you lessen the effectiveness of the medication. Setting a time to get up in the morning and going to bed at night is important in gaining a healthy mental state.

The same is true of setting a schedule for eating, even if you don’t eat lunch in the field like my grandparents did. The point is to eat regularly and try to have a set time that everyone in the family knows when a meal will be available.

Try to include exercise in your routine. Having a daily routine of exercise will reduce stress and decrease depression. Dopamine and Serotonin levels are known to increase in the brain when we exercise giving us a sense of well-being. This also can contribute to raising one’s self esteem.

Other things one should include in the routine are work, family and free time. Setting time aside for these things brings good healthy interactions with others. Often individuals spend too much time in one activity and other parts of their lives suffer as a result. Television, gaming and Internet time should be scheduled in a limited basis. Too often I see these activities taking up most of a client’s time which provides no social interaction and little brain stimulation.

A good exercise I give individuals who have difficulty setting a routine is to have them track their time for a week, day by day, hour by hour. Then we sit down and evaluate how they are spending their time and try to construct a balanced routine. This helps these individuals to begin a routine, even if we start with one activity at a time.

This is not always easy and it takes consistency, but the practice of getting yourself into a routine can be rewarding and contribute greatly to your mental health.

Stan Carlson M.Div., LIMHP, LADC, SAP, SAE is a mental health and drug and alcohol counsellor in Fremont, Nebraska, USA.

Mental Health Money May Not Reach Those in Need

abc.net.au/news / Feb 28 2014

A former agricultural lobbyist is concerned the $10.7 million dollars allocated to mental health in the Federal Government’s drought package won’t get to the people who need it.

Cattleman and past New South Wales Farmers Association president, Mal Peters, was a member of the 2008 Social Expert Panel review which investigated the impact of drought on farmers, their families and communities. He says there are too many fingers in the mental health pie, and is worried that a ‘drought industry’ has developed.

"They were generally non-government agencies that were funded to go out and assist farmers in these times of need," said Mr Peters. "I would question a number of the people who were giving that assistance.

"We want people who know what they're doing out there assisting farmers, not people who are just good at accepting government money."

Mr Peters thinks the drought package is a good start but says there are a number of unanswered questions regarding the package. He says the banks have to be won over.

"From my personal experience when talking to bankers is that they are very concerned to make sure their securities are okay.

"They tend to like to have their securities all tied up. "I know there is hesitation on the banks' behalf so it'll be interesting to see how that unfolds."

NSW cattleman and past NSW Farmers Association president Mal Peters on his property near Inverell.

Page 12 of 20

Australians Pay More for Health Care than France, UK, Report Says, Amid Medicare Co-Payment Debate

abc.net.au/news / Mar 4 2014

Australians are paying much more for health care than people in France and the UK, consumer advocates say, amid debate over a proposed Medicare co-payment.

Further, 17 per cent of healthcare expenditure in Australia is already being funded by individual co-payments, and any extra fee will create major barriers to accessing health care, a report by the Consumers Health Forum suggests.

The proposal to charge patients a $6 fee for bulk-billed GP visits was raised in late December by a health consultant who said it was a reasonable measure to keep the Medicare system going.

Health Minister Peter Dutton has flagged major changes to the system, saying he wants to have a frank and fearless conversation about co-payments. But the forum, the national peak body representing the interests of Australian healthcare consumers, says if the $6 co-payment proposal was implemented, low-income earners would be hit hardest, along with the chronically ill and the elderly. The forum's chief executive, Adam Stankevicius, says consumers should not be slugged with more fees.

"We want to have an evidence-based discussion as to what it is that's going to make the biggest impact in terms of better financially managing the sustainability of our healthcare system," he said.

"But we don't want health care consumers to be slugged with additional costs when there are other more complex and more intricate arguments [to be had on] how we can best move forward on that sustainability footing."

He says co-payments will fail to generate cost savings for the health system, delay treatments and reduce access to health care for Australians.

"People who are older, people on pensions in particular, are those that consider the financial outlay more seriously," he said.

"So they're the ones that we may see delaying healthcare treatment that they actually need until the problem becomes so acute that they end up in our emergency departments."

Australia's Co-Payments 'Some of the Highest in the World'

Health policy expert Jennifer Doggett, who wrote the report, says for many people in the community, a $6 upfront cost would be very difficult to afford.

"Typically when someone goes to a GP they also receive a prescription; they have to go to the pharmacy and fill that prescription," she said.

"There are often further tests, x-rays, pathology tests, maybe a specialist visit or an allied health visit. These also come with co-payments.

"So the $6 is a just on top of the co-payments that Australians are already paying. We pay some of the highest co-payments in the world for our healthcare."

She cited the case of Leonie Haven, a cancer patient who spent $50,000 on health care out of her own pocket. “Part of the problem is that governments haven’t taken responsibility for co-payments the same way as they have overseen the costs of private health insurance,” she said.

“So every year the health funds have to go to the Minister to request any increase in their premiums. The Minister personally takes responsibility for authorising those increases but there’s no oversight of co-payments associated with health services.

“That means that there’s nowhere for consumers to go if they’re faced with these huge out-of-pocket costs, like Leonie. There’s no ombudsman, there’s no ministerial oversight or responsibility for it.”

Medicare Offices to Close on Saturdays

abc.net.au/news / Mar 20 2014

Medicare offices will close on Saturdays around the country, the Federal Government has confirmed.

Human Services Minister Marise Payne says there has been a 60 per cent reduction in walk-ins into Medicare shopfronts on Saturdays.

There are currently more than 90 Medicare offices which trade on Saturdays, mainly in regional and suburban areas.

Ms Payne says more people are making claims online or electronically.

"I think what we're seeing is a change in the way people are doing business," she said.

"They are able to use self-service options, they are able to claim online or use our apps or smart tablets and that is also a very popular way."

Last month Health Minister Peter Dutton flagged the need for an overhaul of Medicare and a frank discussion about the health system.

He said the current system is unsustainable.

A commission of audit, set up by Prime Minister Tony Abbott, received a submission recommending patients pay a fee for bulk-billed GP visits.

Under the proposal, pensioners and concession card holders would be exempt from the fee, while families would be granted up to 12 bulk-billed visits annually.

Jennifer Doggett

Medicare offices around the country will now close on Saturdays.

Page 13 of 20

Isolation and other issues can affect those beyond the cities

Video Conferencing Effective in Mental Health Services Delivery, but Medicare Rebates Needed Says Researcher

abc.net.au/news / Feb 21 2014

A researcher is urging mental health services provided by video conferencing be covered by Medicare.

University of South Australia clinical psychologist Susan Simpson says research has shown telemental health services can be just as effective as face-to-face treatment.

"Some clients actually indicate that they prefer video conferencing to face-to-face therapy, saying that it increases their level of comfort, they feel like they have their own space and have control," she said.

The researcher thinks more people will face up to their mental health issues and seek assistance if services are boosted and Medicare rebates are on offer to ease the financial burden.

She says there is a potential for the use of telemental health services to keep expanding across remote parts of Australia if some of the current problems are tackled.

"I think one of those things is a lack of funding currently for psychology services; there's a lack of incentive," she said.

"With other telepsychiatry services, that's a wonderful template because Government has offered Medicare rebates to patients who are accessing psychiatry services from remote areas, whereas only people who live in urban areas and live close to psychologists are currently able to access Medicare rebates."

Harsh Life in Regions Can Trigger Mental Health Issues

Dr Simpson says mental health issues are frequent among those often facing the harshness of life in remote areas.

"People in remote and rural Australia are actually at a disadvantage in that way in that they're not able to access incentives or rebates for video conferencing-based services," she said.

"There's a higher prevalence of mental health problems in rural areas than in urban areas and actually ... suicide rates are about 1.2 to 2.4 times higher.

"That's because of things like socio-economic disadvantage, loneliness, isolation, they have a harsher natural environment, they're more vulnerable to natural disasters such as drought."

Dr Simpson says the services available to people in regions are often intermittent.

"Often they have to make do with people who are fly-in and fly-out psychologists, their therapy can't be regular enough, it's often fortnightly or monthly," she said.

The issue of telemental health delivery is being discussed at a conference at the University of South Australia in Adelaide.

Mental Health First Aid Training

The Mental Health First Aid Program is run by Mental Health First AidTM (MHFA) Australia, a national non-profit health promotion charity focused on training and research. More information about MHFA Australia here:

www.mhfa.com.au

Standard Mental Health First Aid covers the most common disorders such as depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders and alcohol and drug problems.

2014 Dates:

6th & 7th May 2014

5th & 6th August 2014

4th & 5th November 2014

Youth Mental Health First Aid is for adults who live or work with young people. This course also addresses self-harm and eating disorders.

2014 dates:

1st & 2nd July 2014

9th & 10th December 2014

Both courses cover the development of a 5-step action plan for mental health first aid, managing suicide, panic attacks, psychotic behaviour and general communication skills.

Training Location:

Arcadian Surf Lifesaving Club

The Strand Rockpool

North Ward Qld 4810

Duration: 2 days

Cost: $100 per person

Registration Forms available online at: http://www.mifa.org.au/mental-health-first-aid

To find out more contact our Qld Manager Education and Training, Philippa Harris on 4725 3664, or email training@mifnq.org.au.

Page 14 of 20

Survey Finds More People Willing to Disclose Mental Health Problems

psychcentral.com/news / Mar 8 2014

A new survey has found that people are more willing to disclose having a mental health problem and receiving treatment.

The survey, led by Orygen Youth Health Research Centre in collaboration with the University of Melbourne in Australia, also found improved knowledge and beliefs about mental health problems within the community.

Researchers said they believe this is due, in part, to educational campaigns about mental health.

“This greater awareness and changing attitudes towards mental health problems mostly likely fuels the increase in the willingness to discuss mental health problems,” according to lead researcher Dr. Nicola Reavley from the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health.

Results from the researchers’ national survey of mental health literacy — what people know and believe about mental health problems like depression and schizophrenia — was compared to the results of similar surveys carried out in 1995, according to Reavley.

“The results of the study revealed that the numbers of those disclosing experiences of depression and early schizophrenia, and of having received professional help for depression, have increased since 1995,” she said.

“We know that people are better at recognizing the symptoms of depression than they used to be. It is also possible that there is less stigma around disclosure, although we still have a lot of work to do in that area.”

In 1995, 45 percent of those surveyed said they knew someone like the person given in the case description, while in 2011, 71 percent said this, she noted.

The study also showed that between the survey periods of 2003, 2004, and 2011, women were more likely than men to disclose experiencing depression, while those born overseas were more likely than those born in Australia to disclose experiencing depression with suicidal thoughts.

Researchers hope their findings can contribute to the design of public education and anti-stigma interventions.

“Such policies could help those who need it to seek early treatment,” the researchers said. “Such educational campaigns could improve the recognition of the signs and symptoms of mental disorders, as well as increase the public’s knowledge of appropriate treatment. At the same time, a campaign could, hopefully, minimize stigma as a barrier to seeking professional help.”

“This new information helps us to understand how things can change in the population and the impact of campaigns to reduce the stigma of mental health problems,” Reavley said.

Source: The University of Melbourne

Book Review

By Graeme Cowan

Back from the Brink” (BFTB) contains interviews of prominent and everyday Australians on how they overcame depression. In preparation for this book I interviewed over 250 people with depression to find out what they would like to ask the interviewees and what they found most effective in treating their depression.

Craig lives in Sydney, NSW and has been a strong supporter of our dNet. He has spoken to many 'dNetters' in researching for his book, including depressioNet Founder, Leanne Pethick.

Graeme's Website:

www.iambackfromthebrink.com

www.graemecowan.com.au

How to buy?

You can purchase 'Back From The Brink' from most bookshops and it is also available in both paperback book and as an e-book at http://www.iambackfromthebrink.com/stories.html#ordr

Published by:

Bird in Hand Media

ISBN: 9-7809803393-0-7

Page 15 of 20

Calendar of Events – April & May 2014

APRIL 2014 – CALENDAR OF EVENTS SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 Youth Mental

Health First Aid Apr 1 & 2

2 3 4 5

6 Daylight Savings

7 World Health Day

8

9

10 Purchase your Entertainment

Book from MIFNQ Call 4725 3664

11

12

13

14 Abstracts due for

Mental Health Conference

anzmh.asn.au/conference/

15 16 17 18

Good Friday

MIFNQ Offices Closed

19 Easter Saturday

20 21

Easter Monday

MIFNQ Offices Closed

22

23 24 Pay It Forward Day

payitforward.com.au

25

Anzac Day

MIFNQ Offices Closed

26

27

28

29 30 International Jazz Day

MAY 2014 – CALENDAR OF EVENTS SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 2 3

4

5 Safe in OZ - Introduction to Working with Individuals with Self-

Destructive Behaviors Picnic Bay Surf Life Saving Club, Townsville

- 9:30am www.safeinoz.com.au

7 Standard Mental Health First Aid

May 6 & 7

8 World Red Cross

Day

9 10

11 Mother’s Day

12 National Volunteer

Week May 12-18

volunteeringaustralia.org

13 14 15 16 17 MIFNQ

Townsville Clubhouse SAW

Family BBQ

SCHIZOPHRENIA AWARENESS WEEK (SAW Week) May 11 – May 17 – visit mifnq.org.au for updates on events in your area.

18

19

20 Looking Forward

Dementia Information Day 10am – 2:30pm

Kirwan

21 Quality Dementia

Care Workshop 9am-3pm, Kirwan

22

23 World Turtle Day

24 Black Dog Charity

Ride May 24

th & 25

th

25

26 National Sorry Day

www.nsdc.org.au

27

28 29 White Wreath Day

In Remembrance of All Victims of

Suicide www.whitewreath.com

30

31 World No Tobacco Day

Page 16 of 20

Reducing Anxiety with a Smartphone App psychologicalscience.org/news / Mar 18 2014

Playing a science-based mobile gaming app for 25 minutes can reduce anxiety in stressed individuals, according to research published in Clinical Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science.

The study suggests that “gamifying” a scientifically-supported intervention could offer measurable mental health and behavioral benefits for people with relatively high levels of anxiety.

“Millions of people suffering from psychological distress fail to seek or receive mental health services. A key factor here is that many evidence-based treatments are burdensome — time consuming, expensive, difficult to access, and perceived as stigmatizing,” says lead researcher Tracy Dennis of Hunter College.

“Given this concerning disparity between need and accessibility of services, it is crucial for psychological researchers to develop alternative treatment delivery systems that are more affordable, accessible, and engaging.”

That’s where the mobile app comes in.

The game is based on an emerging cognitive treatment for anxiety called attention-bias modification training (ABMT). Essentially, this treatment involves training patients to ignore a threatening stimulus (such as an angry face) and to focus instead on a non-threatening stimulus (such as a neutral or happy face). This type of training has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress among people suffering from high anxiety.

In the study, about 75 participants — who all scored relatively high on an anxiety survey — were required to follow two characters around on the screen, tracing their paths as quickly and accurately as possible.

After playing the game for either 25 or 45 minutes, the participants were asked to give a short speech to the researchers while being recorded on video — an especially stressful situation for these participants.

The videos revealed that participants who played the ABMT-based version of the game showed less nervous behavior and speech during their talk and reported less negative feelings afterward than those in the placebo group.

“Even the ‘short dosage’ of the app — about 25 minutes — had potent effects on anxiety and stress measured in the lab,” explains Dennis, who co-authored the study with Laura O’Toole of The City University of New York. “This is good news in terms of the potential to translate these technologies into mobile app format because use of apps tends to be brief and ‘on the go.’”

The researchers are currently investigating whether even shorter stints of play – similar to how we normally play other smartphone games — would have the same anxiety-reducing effect.

“We’re examining whether use of the app in brief 10-minute sessions over the course of a month successfully reduces stress and promotes positive birth outcomes in moderately anxious pregnant women,” Dennis says.

While it’s unclear whether this app would produce mental health benefits in those with clinically-diagnosed anxiety, it does present a compelling case for gamified ABMT acting as a “cognitive vaccine” against anxiety and stress. The researchers believe that apps could eventually be developed to assist in the treatment for other mental health disorders, such as depression or addiction.

“Gamifying psychological interventions successfully could revolutionize how we treat mental illness and how we view our own mental health. Our hope is to develop highly accessible and engaging evidence-based mobile intervention strategies that can be used in conjunction with traditional therapy or that can be ‘self-curated’ by the individual as personal tools to promote mental wellness,” Dennis concludes.

This research was supported by the National Institute of Mental Health and the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities.

MHiMA Launches Framework for Mental Health in Multicultural Australia

qmhc.qld.gov.au / Mar 20 2014

On 20 March 2014 MHiMA (Mental Health in Multicultural Australia) launched the Framework for Mental Health in Multicultural Australia.

The framework is designed to improve cultural responsiveness at both organisational and worker level. It is an integrated online package consisting of an organisational cultural responsiveness self-assessment scale, strategies and outcome indicators for organisations and workers which are backed up with resources and best practice examples referenced to the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards (2012) and the National Standards for Mental Health Services (2010). The framework also contains key concept sheets providing evidence and further information about the key theoretical underpinnings of the framework

About Mental Health in Multicultural Australia (MHiMA). The MHiMA project is funded by the Australian Government, Department of Health through the National Mental Health Program to provide: a national focus on mental health and suicide prevention for people from immigrant and refugee backgrounds, their families and communities; advice and support to governments, health and social services and other relevant agencies

For more information visit www.mhima.org.au, email framework@mhima.org.au or phone 1300 136 289.

Page 17 of 20

Australia's Mental Health System Not Meeting Demand, Should Focus on Self-Help: Report

abc.net.au/news / Mar 11 2014

A new report is calling for a major re-think of Australia's mental health system, which it says is not meeting demand.

The Crossroads report was prepared by Ernst and Young and the ReachOut online youth mental health service for the Inspire Foundation.

It found nearly one in two adult Australians have experienced mental illness, but less than half have received the help they need.

It says meeting demand under the current system would cost $9 billion and 8,800 more trained professionals over 15 years.

But ReachOut's chief executive Jonathan Nicholas says in a fiscally-restrained environment, governments need to look to alternative approaches.

He says they should consider an approach that emphasises self-help and focuses on the young.

He acknowledges that some people are best treated in a clinical setting, but says a "lot of people can actually help themselves".

"They can go through programs, read information, access peer support environments and their mental health difficulties actually improved," he told ABC News Breakfast.

"If we can intervene early, or even better prevent the emergence of some of those mental health difficulties, obviously we can help people have happier healthier lives.

"But we can also take some of the strain off the clinical system and free up those valuable resources such as GPs and psychologists and psychiatrists, to help those in most persistent need."

He says policymakers are "very receptive" towards ideas on how to improve mental health services.

"We have to start having a difficult conversation in Australia about not only the problems in mental health, but the innovative solutions," he said.

"The work of the National Mental Health Commission in this regard is calling for a doubling of the proportion of people that get access to help.

"It's really a challenge to us in the community and government to say 'how can we do that in a fiscally-constrained environment?'

"If we're not able to spend the extra $9 billion and employ 800,000 clinicians, what is it that we can do to achieve the same solution at a lower cost?"

Supporting MIFNQ There are many ways that you can support us and the work we do at MIFNQ. If you haven’t done so already, why not become a member. Membership is free and an application form is on the back page or you can join online at our website.

Volunteering is another way you can make a valuable contribution. We always have lots of opportunities for volunteers to make a difference to our services and programs. You may like to volunteer with administration tasks, assist with our extensive library, are a handyman or assist with our program courses which can range from reading, music, cooking, arts and crafts and a whole lot more. Many of our volunteers find they can receive as much themselves as they generously give.

Partnerships/Sponsors

You might also consider becoming a business partner or sponsor of the Fellowship. Our dedicated staff put in many hours of unpaid work to enable us to provide the best service we can in the community. Business partnerships allow us keep the corporate services department running effectively and efficiently while allowing us to plan for future growth and the ever increasing demand for services. And donating to MIFNQ online is easy.

Online Donations

You can make secure online donations through the Give Now website through this link www.givenow.com.au/mifnq

Page 18 of 20

Coffee Break

SUDOKU

Beginner Level Medium Level

Partners in Recovery Explained

Published on Feb 20, 2014

What is North Brisbane Partners in Recovery and how does it support people with severe and persistent mental illness with complex needs? This short video aims to explain Partners in Recovery to health care consumers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNGjBydZMjA

Inspirational Quotes

The Sudoku puzzle consists of 81 squares divided into nine 3 x 3 blocks. Some of the squares already have numbers in them. To solve a Sudoku puzzle you have to use the numbers 1-9 to fill in the blank spaces so that each row, each column and each 3 x 3

square has all the numbers 1-9 appearing once.

Page 19 of 20

Mi Networks AUSTRALIA

Mi Networks is our promise that we can help connect you to information and services you need. From the moment you walk in the door or pick up the phone, we will welcome you. We will listen and discuss your needs. Many of our staff and volunteers have some understanding of what you are experiencing, in part because they’ve experienced mental illness or have cared for someone living with mental illness.

Our Promise

A place you are welcome -- We promise to treat you like a person, not a number. We will always have time to listen, question and discuss. We want to know how you are, what you need and how we can help.

Peer Support -- Many of our staff and volunteers have lived experience: either living with mental illness or as the carers of someone with mental illness. We are people with similar experiences and we will have some understanding of what you are going through.

Relevant Information -- We offer tailored and up-to-date information to assist you, your family members, friends and carers. If we don’t have the information you require, we will help you find it.

Community Networks--We are linked into our local networks and have established strong and supportive working relationships with other services. We are connected to a broad range of programs, supports and information.

A National Network --We offer a range of one-on-one and group support programs for you, your family members, friends and carers across Australia. If we can’t assist you on-site at one of our locations, we will connect you with someone who can.

Personalised Referral -- We will refer you to the services and supports that best meet your needs. This may be a program we offer or it may be provided by someone else. We will support you to find the best fit for you.

For further information go to the

MiNetworks website or call 1800 985 944

Living Proof – Positive Stories of Mental Illness

Mental Illness Fellowship NQ Inc

MIFNQ-Cairns Mental Health Carers’ Support Hub

MIFNQ-Day To Day Living

MIFNQInc

@CairnsCarersHub

@MIFNQ

@LivingProof

@Roads2Recovery

MIFNQInc

www.mifnq.org.au

Townsville has an extensive collection of books, DVD’s, CDs, VHS and cassettes for members to borrow. Feel free to come in and browse around.

Library Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00am to 4:00pm

Membership Application Form

I would like to become a member of Mental Illness Fellowship NQ Inc.

Individual Family Organization

Please select the category/categories which relate to you:

Family Member Friend Someone who experiences mental illness

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What Program/s are you current enrolled in (if any):

Day to Day Living Early Psychosis MH First Aid Well Ways

Living Proof Respite Assisting Families Counselling

DONATIONS AND REQUESTS I wish to support the work of the Fellowship and I enclose a donation of:

$100 $50 $25 Other ____________________________________

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YOUR DETAILS Name: ___________________________________________________________________________

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Email Consent (please sign) ____________________________________________________________

(This consent allows MIFNQ to contact you via electronic media)

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(This consent allows MIFNQ to use your image on print and/or electronic media)

On completion return to:

Doc ID: Document13 Version: 1.10 Approved by: Effective date: 16/01/2014 Review date: 16/01/2015 Page 20 of 20

The Master document is controlled electronically. One printed copy of each version is held for reference in the Quality Management System Master Document File. All other hard copies are uncontrolled.

Email: townsville@mifnq.org.au

Fax: (07) 4725 3819

Post: Membership Administration Mental Illness Fellowship NQ Inc PO Box 979 HYDE PARK QLD 4812