World Mental Health Day needed every day

World Mental Health Day needed every day

As World Mental Health Day approaches The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is calling for governments to focus on the significant mental health needs of the community.

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists has today released a statement Improving mental health in Australia and New Zealand to coincide with the upcoming World Mental Health Day on 10 October 2010.

“One in five people will experience a mental illness at some stage in their lives and mental illness continues to be a major health and social issue,” said Dr Maria Tomasic, President of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists.

“The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists believes that with appropriate commitment and investment it is possible to improve the mental health of the community,” said Dr Tomasic.

“Current funding for mental health is inadequate. Funding for mental health should be reflective of the burden of disease attributable to mental health to ensure adequate service delivery,” said Dr Tomasic.

“Mental health services must be accessible across the lifespan and be equitably implemented across all ages, patient groups, settings and for those from disadvantaged groups,” said Dr Tomasic.

“Prevention and early intervention programs across all age groups are essential to reduce the burden of mental illness across the community,” said Dr Tomasic.

“An increased mental health workforce is needed to improve care. Successful mental health services require a whole of community and whole of government approach and mental health care must focus on those experiencing mental health issues, prioritise recovery and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness,” said Dr Tomasic.

“A substantial increase in mental health research funding is required to lead to fundamental new knowledge, care and treatment options,” said Dr Tomasic.

“World Mental Health Day acknowledges the prevalence of mental illness in the community, the importance of addressing the needs of those with mental illness and their families and carers, and seeks to reduce stigma about mental illness,” said Dr Tomasic.

Link to Improving mental health in Australia and New Zealand: http://www.ranzcp.org/images/stories/ranzcp-attachments/Resources/College_Statements/Position_Statements/bopp_pol_improving_mh.pdf

ENDS

© Scoop Media