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Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt announced today that the Prime Minister will appoint Dr Ruth Vine to the newly created role of Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Mental Health.
Everymind welcomes this announcement and prioritisation of mental health as a tier one issue of importance for the nation in addressing the short and long-term impacts of COVID-19.
Dr Vine’s focus will be on increasing the mental health support available for those feeling impacted by COVID-19 and to look at the role of mental health support delivery via states, territories and nationally.
Everymind Acting Director Associate Professor, Dr Carmel Loughland said Dr Vine’s appointment is a significant step forward in supporting national action around mental ill-health prevention and will contribute to important work focussed on supporting our most vulnerable members of society.
"Make no mistake, this has been a tough time for many and we know that people are struggling,” Associate Professor Loughland said.
“This is especially true for those who may already have been experiencing challenges and existing stressors prior to COVID-19.
"This includes people like educators, small business owners, family day care educators and carers of loved ones already experiencing mental ill-health.
“We know that carers are often the forgotten people in any mental health journey and play a critical role in supporting the more than four million people Australians who experience mental ill-health every year.
“We also know that those who support others with mental ill-health often report elevated levels of emotional and psychological distress that is significantly higher than the Australian population.
"There has never been a greater need to provide this population with the opportunity to fortify their own resilience, mental health and wellbeing.
“We at Everymind would welcome an approach, which addresses the specific mental health and wellbeing needs of the nation including those who make important contributions to the community."
For more info:
Access small business support during during adverse events
Access financial support available for small business owners
Access national resources to support mental health and wellbeing during COVID19
Help-seeking
If anyone feels the need to reach out for support following this news, Everymind encourages individuals to do so via relevant help-seeking services.
National 24/7 Crisis Services:
Lifeline: 13 11 14 www.lifeline.org.au
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Published: 13 May 2020
