Yarra Valley residents have access to a new mental health service with a HeadtoHelp hub now open in Yarra Junction, being one of 15 hubs throughout Victoria.
HeadtoHelp supports Victorians of all ages to find the mental health and wellbeing support that’s best for them.
A person can call HeadtoHelp on 1800 595 212 to speak to a trained mental health professional who will provide advice and if they need it, connect them to the best support or service for them.
This could include existing mental health services, such as the local Youth Health Hub for young people aged 12-25 years, or support at a HeadtoHelp hub.
Inspiro Community Health CEO, Sue Sestan, said there is a strong need for the new HeadtoHelp hub in the Yarra Valley.
“The pandemic has highlighted what we have known for some time; remote and regional communities don’t have the same access to mental health services as metropolitan areas,” she said.
“The HeadtoHelp hub will provide a full suite of local mental health services to support our community members as we work to recover from this unforeseen crisis.”
Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (EMPHN) CEO, Janine Wilson, said the HeadtoHelp hubs provide clinical advice, referral and wraparound care for people struggling to cope with the pandemic.
“The service is needs-based and recovery-focused, supporting people in mental health distress by providing access to multidisciplinary teams of mental health workers, including psychologists, mental health nurses, social workers, care navigators, and alcohol and drug workers.
“The hubs will also connect to other services, including intensive mental health care or social supports, to ensure people get the help they need, when they need it,” she said.
HeadtoHelp is available to anyone in the community, including those without a mental health treatment plan or referral from their GP.
Anyone concerned about their mental health can call HeadtoHelp on 1800 595 212 (Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5pm)
HeadtoHelp Yarra Junction is located at Upper Yarra Family Centre, 2444 Warburton Highway. The hubs are Covid safe, so before visiting call first to talk to a hub team member.
HeadtoHelp doesn’t provide crisis support. For urgent support, contact LifeLine 13 11 14.
The HeadtoHelp service in Yarra Junction is delivered by local community health providers Inspiro Community Health and Access Health and Community, and funded by the Australian Government through EMPHN.
Federal Member for Casey, Tony Smith MP, welcomed the HeadtoHelp hub.
“The Coronavirus pandemic continues to affect so many in our community. As part of the Federal Government’s response, $31.9 million of funding is being used to improve access to mental health services.
“A new HeadtoHelp service, based in Yarra Junction, is providing vital support, advice and referrals to people during these difficult times.
“As one of fifteen in our state, this service will support those living in the Yarra Valley, the Dandenong Ranges and Melbourne’s outer east.”
HeadtoHelp is funded for 12 months. For more information, visit: headtohelp.org.au
