Lack of mental health services across state between GPs and crisis teams, evidence for royal commission finds

A gap in mental health services between GPs and crisis staff has emerged as a common theme no matter where you live in Victoria, evidence gathered for the royal commission has found.

Gaps leaving Victorians unable to gain mental health support until they are in crisis have emerged during the first phase of the Royal Commission into the system.

Presentations from 1600 Victorians during community consultations have raised recurring issues across the state, which will become key themes when public hearings begin next month.

Commission chair Penny Armytage said the lack of mental health services between GPs and crisis support was a common theme in sessions across more than 20 regional, rural and metropolitan areas.

She said inequity of treatment between different areas, stigma and discrimination for those experiencing mental illness and the difference in the way mental and physical health are treated were strong issues.

“There is this incredible frustration in not being able to get their mental health needs responded to,” Ms Armytage said.

“Many people also shared stories about a highly committed workforce doing its best to provide services and support, often under difficult circumstances.

“These community consultations underlined the incredible responsibility of the Commission — to listen and hear these personal stories, to understand and think deeply about the issues and to use this information to make the necessary changes.”

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People who are currently or have previously suffered mental illness, carers and families, mental health professionals, GPs, emergency workers and service providers all attended more than 60 consultation sessions in the Royal Commission’s first phase.

Submissions are still being accepted online until July 5, which can include images, audio or video content.

Public hearings are scheduled to begin in the first week of July at the Melbourne Town Hall, with the Commission’s interim report due to be delivered in November this year.

Anyone wanting to make a submission can do so at www.rcvmhs.vic.gov.au or those with questions can call 1800 00 11 34 or email [e-mail].

Those requiring immediate assistance can contact beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.