Reconciliation is Needed Now More Than Ever in Our Western Sydney Region
National Reconciliation Week (NRW), held between 27 May and 3 June, is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. This year’s NRW theme is ‘Now more than ever’ reminding us that in every circumstance, […]
Western Sydney Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Joint Regional Plan 2024-2025
As the Western Sydney Primary Health Network (WSPHN), we are committed to a mentally healthy and inclusive Western Sydney community. The Western Sydney Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Joint Regional Plan 2024-2025 (the Plan) strengthens our commitment to the region and to working collaboratively with our partners, Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) and Sydney […]
Helping People with Complex Mental Health Needs
We have been working with One Door Mental Health (One Door) for over four years to provide recovery-focused programs in non-clinical environments to help people with complex mental health needs build meaningful, safe lives in the community. Over half of their national team have lived experience, which can help build relationships with clients on connection […]
Creating a Standardised Language for Mental Health Care
The Initial Assessment and Referral Decision Support Tool (IAR-DST) is a platform to help referrers find the best care for patients. The tool uses eight assessment domains to estimate the service patients require across five levels of care. Combined with clinical judgement, this standardised, evidence-based model, can help ensure that patients are connected to the most appropriate local […]
Helping Young People Quit Vaping and E-Cigarettes
E-cigarettes, also known as vapes, are filled with liquids which typically contain nicotine, artificial flavourings and various chemicals. The liquid is heated into a vapour which is then inhaled into the users lungs. Unlike cigarettes, they do not contain tobacco. Electronic cigarettes can be harmful to users and non-users who are exposed to the aerosols […]
Giving People a Head Start in Finding the Right Mental Health Support
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 […]
Post Pandemic Mental Health Support: PsychCentral
PsychCentral provides culturally competent services to meet the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in Western Sydney. Originating in 2005 in South Western Sydney, the team has since expanded its locations to include a Westmead office to cater to the local CALD community. PsychCentral is a skilled team of allied health professionals who […]
Equipping Health Professionals to Provide Mental Health Support
Health professionals working in the mental health and primary care sector have an important role to play in the diagnosis and treatment of patients experiencing mental ill-health. As there may be an increase in the number of people seeking mental health support during Mental Health Month it is important to be equipped with the right […]
WentWest Stories, Care Finder: Ms P’s Story
The Care Finder program is commissioned by WSPHN to provide vulnerable older people with the assistance they need. Care Finders can assist community members by talking to My Aged Care on their behalf and arranging an assessment, helping them understand what aged care services are available, and completing forms for them. I met Ms. […]
Helping People at Risk of Self-harm
Today, R U OK? Day puts a spotlight on the importance of providing a safe space for a patient, friend, family member or coworker to speak about their mental health and reducing the stigma of mental illnesses. Asking ‘Are you okay?’ can give a person the opportunity to be seen, heard and understood. The day […]