A National Vision for Australia’s Mental Health and Suicide Prevention System
WA Primary Health Alliance is leading the establishment of a network of Head to Health services for WA as part of the Australian Governments National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.
The network of Head to Health services will improve access to, and coordination of, mental health services delivered digitally, via telephone and face-to-face.
Head to Health is an Australian Government service that helps people to access the mental health and wellbeing services that are right for them. It comprises the Head to Health digital platform, the Head to Health Phone Service and a network of Head to Health centres.
The services make it easier to navigate and choose the most suitable care options, whether that’s face-to-face, via phone or online.
Head to Health also makes it easier for GPs and other health professionals to support the mental health of the people they look after, and those who support them, through improving access to, and coordination of, mental health services in their local community.
Head to Health Digital Platform – headtohealth.gov.au
The Head to Health website includes over 750 evidence based digital mental health resources, apps and online programs.? This includes dedicated online forums, peer support services, chat and email services.
Head to Health Assessment and Referral Phone Service – 1800 595 212
This state-wide phone service offers free confidential assessment and referral for anyone seeking help for their mental and emotional wellbeing and/or wanting to support a patient, or someone they care about. The Head to Health Phone Service uses the Initial Assessment and Referral Decision Support Tool (IAR-DST). All Head to Health mental health clinicians are trained in and use the IAR-DST to determine the most appropriate level of care for individuals seeking mental health support. This is helping to create a common language across the mental health sector about patients’ treatment needs. If consumers call the phone service number directly, a qualified clinician will use the IAR-DST to guide them to suitable treatment options to support their level of need.
Training is also available for GPs in the use of this tool. Designed to complement the GP or clinician’s clinical judgement, IAR-DST is best used as part of a comprehensive mental health assessment.
One referral is all the GP needs to make as, once the patient is accepted into the Head to Health system, they are connected to the most appropriate services and supports.
GPs and other health professionals can find more information by visiting wapha.org.au/iar-dst/
Head to Health Centres – 1800 595 212 or headtohealth.gov.au
Head to Health Centres offer a walk-in service providing advice, support and, if needed, assessment and treatment for people 18 years and over experiencing emotional and psychological distress. Services include support for family, carers and friends. They aim to improve access to mental health services for people whose condition is too complex for primary care but doesn’t meet the criteria for an emergency department visit. There are currently sites in Midland, Gosnells and Mirrabooka.
Supporting Information
- About Head to Health
- Our Mental Health Priorities
- Midland Head to Health Walk-in Clinic
- Head to Health Media Statement – Cowan
- Head to Health Media Statement – Armadale
- Service Model for Head to Health Adult Mental Health Centres and Satellites
- New walk-in mental health centre opens its doors in Midland – 14 March 2022
- Head to Health site confirmed for Northam – 23 June 2023
- Head to Health adult mental health services open in Gosnells and Mirrabooka – 2 August 2023