Chapter:
14 - Health
Mover:
Seconder:
 
 
Source:
Branch: Lanyon
My Private Notes


Preamble
The mental health of young Australians is in crisis. Recent data reveals that 40% of individuals aged 16 to 24 have experienced a mental health disorder in the past year, a significant increase from 26% in 2007. 

Despite Canberra boasting the highest ratio of psychologists to residents in the country—191 per 100,000 people—young individuals face some of the longest wait times nationally. Private clinics report delays ranging from one week to four months for new appointments. 

At headspace Canberra, young people seeking mental health support meet an average wait time of 10 weeks for face-to-face psychological therapy. Nationally, the average wait time for psychologist appointments has reached approximately 100 days, with some individuals waiting up to 127.5 days to see a psychiatrist. 

These delays have profound consequences. Extended wait times can worsen mental health conditions, leading to increased distress, academic challenges, strained family relationships, and, in severe cases, self-harm or suicide. The tragic case of 15-year-old Bridie Cocks, who took her own life after enduring a 12-month wait for mental health support, underscores the urgent need for systemic change.
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General Resolution

Addressing Prolonged wait times for access Youth Mental Health Services in Canberra

ACT Labor calls on the ACT Government to: 
  • Investigate the distribution of more funding to recruit and keep qualified mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists, to reduce wait times for youth mental health services. Additionally, expanding community-based programs like the Brief Intervention Stream (BIS) can provide immediate support to young individuals while they await long-term care. 
  • Develop and integrate early intervention initiatives within schools and community centres to find and support young individuals experiencing mental health challenges promptly. Programs should focus on mental health education, resilience building, and providing accessible pathways to professional care, ensuring that youths receive the help they need before conditions worsen. By addressing these areas, we can work towards a more responsive and effective mental health care system that meets the needs of Canberra's youth, ensuring prompt support and better outcomes for young individuals facing mental health challenges.