Mental health has been on the agenda in Kyneton, with a recent gathering of ministers at Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health to hear about the access challenges faced in the town.
Bendigo MP Lisa Chesters and Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, and Rural and Regional Health Assistant Minister Emma McBride visited the office in Kyenton to hear from staff delivering mental health supports to local people.
SCCH community mental health manager Adam Stefano and team leader Lauren Tyrrell discussed the strengths of particular programs such as Birds of a Feather, Rainbow Coffee Club and the youth mental health outreach service.
The group also discussed their shared commitment to addressing alarming statistics about the prevalence of mental health issues in the community. Mr Stefano also touched on the post-COVID impact to these statistics.
“Suicide is the leading cause of death for young people and adults 15 to 49 years [old]… and one in five young people experience significant mental health challenges annually,” he said.
“We have also seen rates of anxiety and depression increase and post-pandemic there is an increase in school refusal.”
During the visit Ms McBride also met with staff who, as Services Australia agents, provide vital support to Kyneton residents needing to access Centrelink and Medicare.
