The Mental Council of Tasmania (MHCT) is happy to see the much anticipated 10 year plan for mental health
announced today as part of the State Government’s Rethink Mental Health Project.

MHCT has been a key partner in the development of the plan that seeks to lay out a map for the next ten years
to ensure that the mental health system is addressing the needs of all Tasmanians at every stage of life.

“The State Government is to be congratulated for taking on such a complex task that by its definition
acknowledges there are deep flaws in the mental health system that need to be addressed. Everyone who has
been part of the development of this plan has seen the significance of what needs to be done. It’s now a
chance to hold the mental health sector as well as the government accountable for fixing the problems within
the system. In making this commitment for reform, we have a better chance of some long term outcomes that
will improve the mental health of all Tasmanians,” said Connie Digolis, MHCT CEO.

The key elements of the plan will see a long-term strategy to put the individual at the centre of their care
through redesigning mental health services in both the acute and community setting to form a more
integrated mental health system.

“What this means is there will be a model of mental health care that will eventually see a greater focus on
mental health support in the community which will alleviate the acute system and deliver better outcomes for
individuals and their carers, said Ms Digolis.”

“Not only does the plan seek to address the needs of those living with mental health issues or illness, but there
is an overarching strategy to put initiatives in place that are focused on early intervention and prevention. Of
particular note is to engage with primary health services to provide a stronger approach in early intervention
as often they are the first point of contact people have and therefore are best placed to help people navigate
their own mental health care. “

“The plan also seeks to directly improve referral pathways, particularly after self-harm or a suicide attempt.
This is a welcome initiative that the community will be very pleased to see.”

“Now that we have this plan, MHCT and its members are looking forward to seeing the specific detail around
how we can work together to achieve these important goals. There needs to be a lot of work done to develop
the method in which we deliver this plan in order to ensure Tasmanians aren’t left waiting for reform to
come”, said Ms Digolis.

Advice on how to report sensitively and accurately on mental health and suicide can be found at:

http://www.mindframe-media.info/for-media
Catherine Delpero