New First Nations Focused Headspace For North Brisbane
Young people in north Brisbane and Moreton Bay will now have access to a new mental health service, focused on supporting local First Nations people.
Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay will meet the growing need for mental health support in the region, while providing culturally safe support, care and connection for First Nations teens and young adults.
The new service will be located on the lands of the Kabi Kabi people at 665 Deception Bay Rd, Deception Bay.
headspace supports young people aged 12 to 25 who are experiencing, or at risk of, mild to moderate mental ill-health.
headspace provides support in four areas – mental health, physical and sexual health, work and study, and alcohol and drugs.
This new headspace service in Deception Bay is being established with a strong community focus, understanding the disproportionate and devastating impact of mental ill-health and suicide on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The suicide rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is more than double that of the broader community.
Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay will enhance mental health literacy, increase help-seeking behaviours, and offer support to reduce suicidal and psychological distress in First Nations young people through the delivery of culturally safe mental health support on Country.
Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay is funded by the Albanese Labor Government through the Brisbane North Primary Health Network and will be operated by the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health.
To meet growing demand for youth mental health services, the Albanese Labor Government has committed more than $300 million to expand the headspace network to 174 across the country by 2026, including 91 in regional communities.
To boost services and reduce wait times, the government has committed $27.1 million to the grow the Early Career Program at headspace which supports 150 graduates and 1,500 student placements at headspaces each year.
Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay is the fourth headspace operated by an Indigenous provider, joining services in Mt Isa, Broome and Alice Springs.
For those who prefer online support, eheadspace is available by calling 1800 650 890 or visiting www.headspace.org.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister McCarthy:
“This new headspace service is a great example of how the Albanese Labor Government is ensuring more First Nations young people have access to culturally safe, mental health support
“Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people need to know there is always support available, and they can enjoy happy, healthy and full lives.”
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
“From the bush to the city, we want young people to have access to mental health support and care, close to home.
“The Albanese Labor Government is growing the headspace network, with 167 services operating nationally, including 91 in regional and remote Australia.
“Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay will focus on providing a culturally safe, welcoming and supportive environment for Indigenous young people.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister Kearney:
“As a nurse, I’m a firm believing in breaking down the barriers to mental healthcare. Too many people suffer in silence, but the Albanese Labor Government and headspace are helping change that.
“First Nations Australians face unique mental health challenges. This investment from the Albanese Labor Government is ensuring First Nations kids can navigate life’s challenges, foster resilience, confidence and wellbeing”
Quote attributed to IUIH CEO, Mr Wayne Ah Boo:
“We listened to the local Community about the need for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led culturally safe mental health and wellbeing service for our young people.
“Our Staying Deadly services support mental health – our way. We walk alongside our people and provide holistic support and specialised health and wellbeing services based on their goals. Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay will be a safe and supportive place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.
“This new service will be a valuable addition to our South East Queensland IUIH network’s integrated system of care, and another step forward in responding to Community goals to build healthy and strong Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities.”
https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-emma-mcbride-mp/media/new-first-nations-focused-headspace-for-north-brisbane?language=en