Have you been feeling stressed lately? A free mental health coaching program developed by Beyond Blue is available in South Eastern NSW.
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NewAccess, delivered in conjunction with Wellways and COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW PHN, is a six-session program offering practical advice on how to manage stress and cope with emerging mental health issues, including early signs of anxiety and depression.
The program is free, completely confidential and available in-person, over the phone or by video call.
Dianne Kitcher, CEO of COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW PHN said that the latest health data from NSW Health states that almost 60 per cent of females and 58 per cent of males in Southern NSW reported experiencing low levels of psychological distress at some point between 2017 and 2019.
"These rates are likely to have increased due to the recent bushfires, droughts and impacts of COVID-19. Yet we know many people in our region do not access support to manage the way they feel when they need it," she said.
"This is where NewAccess will play such a crucial role - giving people the practical tools to manage unhelpful thoughts and get back on track."
NewAccess coaches are specially trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, guiding people through a proven, evidence-based and personalised program. It is of particular benefit to people living in rural and regional areas where mental health support can be limited, and participants do not require a referral from a doctor or health professional.
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman said NewAccess provides a great starting point for people feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed about everyday life issues.
"NewAccess is designed to help people identify the source of pressure and stress in their lives and provide practical ways they can respond," Ms Harman said.
"It is designed to break down the harmful stigma associated with mental health conditions and other barriers that can prevent people from seeking support."
Meanwhile, Wellways CEO Laura Collister feels that South Eastern NSW communities have "experienced more than their fair share of hardships over the past decade".
"Locals recognise the need for a service like NewAccess in their communities and the response to our callout to train locals to become coaches has been overwhelming. The speed with which local communities have been ready to embrace NewAccess has been extraordinary, with requests for access to the program received in advance of services commencing."
Meanwhile, The Hon Angus Taylor MP, Member for Hume welcomed the new service and said, "This is great news for people who may be feeling stressed or overwhelmed about everyday life issues, such as work, study, relationships, health or loneliness. It will give people the practical tools they require to manage the issues they're facing."
NewAccess has been rolled out in parts of Queensland, NSW and the ACT since 2013, providing support to more than 13,000 people.
To enquire about NewAccess in South East NSW, phone 02 6246 7120, email at senswnewaccess@wellways.org or visit here.
This free service is supported by funding through COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW PHN through the Australian Government's PHN Program.
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