Ipswich mental health services recently joined forces with local police and railway officers to spark a conversation about mental health at Dinmore station, as part of a new awareness campaign.
West Moreton Mental Health and Specialised Services spokeswoman Michelle Giles said the campaign offered a timely reminder about mental health support in Ipswich.
“As Australia begins to feel the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak, it is more important than ever to look out for one another and seek help if it is needed,” Ms Giles said.
“Our Mental Health and Specialised Services team members were pleased to take part in this awareness campaign as we want to let people know that it is OK to reach out for help.
“We work closely with community partners to provide expertise on how to respond to someone experiencing a mental health crisis and to which services the person can be referred.
“A big part of what we do is to foster and promote an awareness of mental health issues so that the community can recognise their own mental health wellbeing and that of those around them.
“As a community we need to look out for each other and be alert to the signs that suggest a person might be struggling and need help.
“These signs include a sudden inability to work, carry out daily activities or have satisfying personal relationships.
“We encourage anyone who needs advice about how to connect with mental health services or require support themselves to call 1300 MH CALL (1300 64 22 55) at any time.”
Ipswich mental health services were on hand to provide information on how to access their services. Credit: Queensland Police Service
Senior Constable Garry Casey from the Queensland Police Service’s Railway Squad said they worked closely with partner agencies including West Moreton Health and Ipswich Lifeline to help improve mental wellbeing in the community.
“As police, we can help break down barriers and provide assistance and referrals for those in our community who need support,” Senior Constable Casey said.
“As part of this recent campaign, Railway Squad officers from the Ipswich outpost spoke to people at Dinmore station about how to access local support services when they needed help.
“We look forward to continuing the conversation with the community across the rail network in the future.”
Mental health services available to the Ipswich community include:
- Lifeline (13 11 14) provides free, 24-hour telephone crisis support and suicide prevention services
- BeyondBlue (1300 224 636) provides information and support via call, email or online chat
- Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467) provides 24-hour telephone and online counselling to people who are affected by suicide
- Floresco Centre (3280 5670) for people aged 18 years and over to assist with life challenges through personalised support and to help and support families and carers
- Headspace (3280 7900) youth mental health service for people aged 12 to 25 years. Face to face, online or telephone support is available.
If someone’s life is in danger, phone 000.