Advocacy group Australians for Mental Health has hailed a new initiative unveiled by the Federal Government, which will provide free access to mental health therapy for all Australians over the age of 16.
The second phase of the Medicare Mental Health Check In has been launched, with Australians now able to access free Low-Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy which will be guided by an approved practitioner via Telehealth.
The free therapy can be accessed through the Medicare Mental Health Check In service.
The program is designed to provide early support to people needing help before their mental health concerns escalate, freeing up specialist services to care for those with more complex needs.
“This is the kind of initiative which could change the course of so many Australians’ mental health journeys. We know accessing and affording mental health care isn’t easy,” Australians for Mental Health Executive Director Chris Gambian said.
“This will absolutely make a difference, and help people avoid costly and hard to access treatment by offering them free support early. This is good news for all Australians,” he said.
The service is available for anyone who has or is at risk of emerging mental ill health or temporary distress. The program is being delivered in partnership with St Vincent’s.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is an evidence-backed treatment for managing mental health, focussing on the link between thoughts, physical sensations and behaviours.
“We understand this program is expected to help up around 150,000 people a year by 2029. That will free up other services, and prevent so many Australians from experiencing prolonged mental ill health because they couldn’t get help and their condition deteriorated,” Chris Gambian said.
“We have a long way to go in addressing the mental health crisis in this country, but this is a positive measure, and we welcome it warmly.”
Speaking about the new initiative Health Minister Mark Butler said it was a major reform.
“The start of guided therapy delivered by Medicare Mental Health Check In is a major milestone in reform of mental health services in Australia.
“For years, this sort of highly accessible, low-intensity service has been recommended by inquiries and experts.
“By helping people with mild or temporary challenges, it will head off more serious challenges and free up capacity in the mental health system for those with deep-seated challenges.” the Minister said.
