NewsBite

Hawthorn: Federal Government’s HeadtoHelp clinic offers free mental health support

Help is at hand for Stonnington locals struggling mentally to cope with the coronavirus pandemic, with specialist support services being rolled out across Melbourne.

Staff at the Hawthorn HeadtoHealth clinic have been conduction virtual appointments during COVID-19. Picture: Supplied.
Staff at the Hawthorn HeadtoHealth clinic have been conduction virtual appointments during COVID-19. Picture: Supplied.

Stonnington residents can get extra mental health support during the coronavirus outbreak at a new clinic based in Hawthorn.

The HeadtoHelp clinic, at 378 Burwood Rd, is one of 15 which have opened across the state as part of a dedicated $26.9 million Federal Government funding package.

Other Melbourne-based clinics are in Berwick, Frankston, Officer, Yarra Junction, Heidelberg West, Broadmeadows, Wyndham Vale and Brunswick East.

The clinics will provide free mental health support services for the next 12 months and residents don’t need a Medicare card or ID to gain access.

The Hawthorn HeadtoHelp clinic has opened at 378 Burwood Rd. Picture: Campbell Lord.
The Hawthorn HeadtoHelp clinic has opened at 378 Burwood Rd. Picture: Campbell Lord.

Treasurer and Kooyong federal Liberal MP Josh Frydenberg said six mental health professionals were based at the Hawthorn clinic who could help locals access additional care conveniently and quickly.

“They will provide on-site mental health support, and will also connect to other mental health services in the region, including intensive mental health care or social supports, to ensure people get the help they need when they need it,” Mr Frydenberg said.

“There has been a significant increase in demand for mental health services in Victoria and our government has stepped up to provide more support.”

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said the clinic would provide residents with strategies and further support to manage their mental health through the pandemic and beyond.

“This is a very difficult time for all Victorians and we know the extended lockdown measures and isolation from family and friends is taking a toll on many people,” he said.

“It’s really important all Victorians know it’s OK to not feel okay, that it is fine to reach out

for support, and that effective help is available.”

Residents can phone 1800 595 212 or visit headtohelp.org.au for more information and to organise appointments.

MORE: VICTORIA’S CHEAPEST PROPERTIES UNDER $400K REVEALED

BENNY HILL’S RUNNING FOR COUNCIL

STONNINGTON SUPERMARKETS POSE COVID RISK

kiel.egging@news.com.au

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/inner-east/hawthorn-federal-governments-headtohealth-clinic-offers-free-mental-health-support/news-story/4e595295980d626b899f35ad39873cb8