The Territory Labor Government today released the NT Mental Health Strategic plan 2019-2025,delivering on a significant election promise to review existing strategies.
The new plan provides clearer direction and understanding ofthe social and emotional health and wellbeing of Territorians with mentalhealth issues.
It also outlines the Territory Governments priority areasand the principles to which all mental health services should adhere.
The six priority areas are:
Coordinatingcare through regional planning developing a regional plan which includes targets for a mix ofservices and infrastructure, especially in remote and rural areas.
Culturallysecure, safe and trauma-informed care that is focused on recovery promotingresilience, independence and self-management; identifying particular culturalneeds; increasing access to appropriate housing, vocational and educationopportunities
People-centredsupports and services with consumers and carers at the centre of care earlyintervention, health promotion and responsiveness among GPs and primary healthcare providers; building community capacity through increased training.
Communityinformation and education to increase mental health knowledge to reduce stigma workingwith individuals and communities to establish culturally appropriate programsand priorities
Safety,quality, data collection, evidence-based service and investment in evaluation usingevidence to improve mental health systems, assuring quality and safety, andembracing new technology to improve data sharing.
Equity,sustainability and stepped care approach succession planning, growingskills and capability and providing safe work environments for mental healthworkers.
Overall, the NT MentalHealth Strategic plan 2019-2025 focuses on building stronger links betweenmental health education, early intervention, treatment, postvention servicesand recovery services.
The plan is aligned withthe Fifth National Mental Health and SuicidePrevention Plan 2017-2022, which was endorsed by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG)Health Council in August 2017.
As noted by theMinister for Health, Natasha Fyles:
The Northern Territory has the highest rate of suicide inyoung people, and we recognise the devastating impact this has on our community.
The NT Mental HealthStrategic Plan aims to treat the signs and symptoms of mental healthillness as early as possible, holistically and as close to home and communityas possible.
The plan will help to achieve our target of halving oursuicide rate over the next 10 years. Its an ambitious target but one we knowwe must tackle to ensure Territorians enjoy full and fulfilling lives.
As noted by theAssistant Minister for Suicide Prevention, Mental Health and Disabilities,Ngaree Ah Kit:
Mental health does not discriminate as it can affect anyoneat any time.
The Territory Labor Government is determined to offerproductive mental health services for vulnerable Territorians in a safe and caringenvironment.
