Menzies launch Digital Stay Strong Plan mental health app
Territory psychologists have launched a digital four-step mental health plan, designed specifically for Indigenous Territorians. Here’s how to access it.
Territorians seeking support can access a new online tool unveiled on World Mental Health Day.
The Menzies School of Health Research on Tuesday launched the online resource which blends evidence-based treatment with First Nations world views.
The Digital Stay Strong Plan, which can be accessed via an app or through its website, is an interactive document that prompts the user to fill out a four-step mental health care plan.
Stay Strong lead cultural advisor Patj Patj Janama Robert Mills said while it was designed for Aboriginal people, all Territorians could use the free resource.
Mr Mills said about two decades of research and consultation had gone into the plan, which had previously been used across the country for years in more formal settings.
“The beauty of this digital program is once you download it, you don’t need Wi-Fi (to use it),” he said.
“You can actually go through the four-step care plan on your phone … then you’ve literally got a helping hand on your phone at any time.”
Mr Mills said it marked a huge change for access to mental health support and offered something his generation never had.
“I was born in the 60s … there was no discussion on mental health at all,” he said.
“We want to break down all the stigmas, mental health is not a dirty word.
“Mental health is important for everybody – for it to become second nature, to be able to discuss it, you can only benefit from that.”
Menzies School of Health Research mental health research lead Professor Tricia Nagel said the resource had been developed with Aboriginal mental health workers and local psychologists.
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She said the plan prompted people to draw on their strengths before focusing on their “worries” and setting goals to overcome those.
“If we do that, then we’ll find that we’ve read a treatment plan unfolding before our eyes that is driven by the values of that person in front of us,” she said.
Head here to learn more about the Stay Strong app.
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