The growing use of technology and web-based sources has given people direct access to a wide range of available mental health services. However, it can be difficult for people to find the right services for their needs. To assist in connecting community and health professionals with the right services, we commission Headstart.
Headstart is an online platform and app designed to help people navigate the mental health care system in Western Sydney. Headstart can offer an individual, or those who are caring for someone experiencing mental health challenges, trusted, free or low-cost local mental health service recommendations based on their search criteria. They can access information on a range of services in Western Sydney based on the person’s demographics, mental health needs, age, cultural background, and level of need.
Headstart has been designed in consultation with working groups comprised of those with lived experience, carer representatives, service providers, health professionals and clinicians, Local Health District and Primary Health Network personnel. These working groups continue to provide advice on suggested improvements, changes, and new functionalities to ensure that the platform effectively bridged the gap between consumers and providers.
Mental Health and AOD Services Offered
Headstart Western Sydney lists local mental health and alcohol and other drug (AOD) services that meet the following criteria:
- The service is delivered face-to-face or online) and available to people living or working in the Western Sydney region
- The service is free or low-cost and can be accessed via self-referral or a referral from a GP or allied health worker
- The service receives public funding or is accredited to National Standards for Mental Health Services (NSMHS) or a relevant equivalent
How Headstart Helps People Navigate the Local Mental Health System
The Headstart platform has been designed with all members of the Western Sydney community in mind. Headstart connects health professionals and community members with services that support people of all ages, genders and cultural backgrounds while being mindful of the financial accessibility of services, geographic location and individual client needs.
Headstart supports a diverse range of community members and includes the following filters:
Demographic groups
- Women
- Men
- Children
- Young people (12-17 years old)
- Young adults (18-25 years old)
- Older persons
- New and expecting parents
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
- Multicultural Communities
- LGBTQIA+
- Gender diverse people
- Carers
- Veterans
Specific conditions
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Bipolar and related disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Schizophrenia and psychotic disorders
- Personality disorders
Support for challenging situations
- AOD concerns
- Suicidal thoughts
- Grief and loss
- Trauma and stress
- Gambling concerns
- Domestic and family violence
- Homelessness
- Financial difficulties
- Self harm
Referring Patients
Health professionals are encouraged to direct patients to the Headstart website or use the platform to find appropriate local services for their patients.
Visit the Headstart website for more information about how to use Headstart with a patient.
Information is correct as of 1 February 2024.