“During challenging times it is important that people know
that they are not alone and support is available to help get them back on track,”
Ms Kendrick said.
A 2007 National
Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing conducted by the Australian Bureau of
Statistics found that an estimated 3.2 million Australians (20% of the
population aged between 16 and 85) had a mental disorder in the twelve months
prior to the survey.
For the past five years Mission Australia has run a Personal
Helpers and Mentors (PHaMs) service aimed at helping people such as these
maintain or regain their independence.
The
program assists people with severe mental illness aged 16 years and over to
manage their daily activities and to live independently in the community.
Activities include behavioural work and skills training in things many of us
would easily take for granted, such as domestic chores or getting dressed
correctly in the morning.
“Mental illness should not be a barrier to community
and social participation,” Ms Kendrick said.
“We
need to do a better job at helping more mentally ill people into the workforce.”
Research
shows that up to 85 per cent of people experiencing serious mental health
issues can return to work or study with the right help.
“Mission
Australia understands that supporting people through their recovery requires a
holistic approach. We ensure that services accessed by participants are
coordinated, integrated and complementary to other services in the community.
We help participants better manage their daily activities and develop personal
recovery plans as they regain their independence.”
People
requiring assistance in dealing with mental illness can contact Mission
Australia on 08 8935 0900.
Mental
Health Week runs from 7 to 13 October and aims to raise awareness and
understanding of the needs, experiences and issues concerning people with a
mental illness.
