INDEPENDENT candidate for Monash, Deb Leonard is advocating for improved mental health services and suicide prevention strategies in the region, following many conversations with community members.
Deb Leonard recently met with Donna Kerr from Daniel’s Wings of Pride to explore solutions for bridging the gaps in mental health services.
Donna’s son Daniel struggled with mental health issues throughout his teenage years. Although he was proactive in reaching out for help, the necessary supports were not available, and tragically he took his own life.
Donna believes Daniel’s death could have been prevented with proper interventions. She is now committed to ensuring others do not experience similar gaps in the system.
“I don’t want the same thing to happen to any other child, parent or person ever again,” said Donna.
Donna has plans to facilitate a welcoming, judgment-free space in Leongatha for those seeking connection and support, offering a bereavement group and a safe place to talk.
Daniel’s Wing of Pride is holding its first Bereavement Group on Thursday, January 23 from 7.30pm at Deb Leonard’s campaign office at 40B Bair Street, Leongatha.
This group is free to attend and open for all those who have lost a loved one.
“Everyone is welcome to come for a confidential chat, a cupper and some supper,” explained Donna.
Daniel’s Wings of Pride will help people connect with the support and services that is appropriate for them.
“We listen, without judgment, everyone is welcome.”
Deb highlighted the success of a similar initiative in Trafalgar run by Jason and Kerry Rantall of Better Mentall, where they have created an open space for people to drop in and have a chat. This voluntary service also helps people connect with the professional supports they need.
“There are significant gaps in mental health care – from acute care to early intervention” Deb stated.
“The system is failing our community – we face higher rates of mental health issues and suicides in regional and rural areas, yet we lack the supports that are available in city areas.”
Currently, individuals with an acute mental health episode in Bass Coast must be transported to Traralgon for treatment.
“This isolates them from the supports they may have in their local area, and puts incredible strain on family members trying to support their loved one,” Deb pointed out.
The situation is even more dire for those not severe enough for immediate intervention but still in need of help.
“The system does not cater for those that are on the edge but not in a serious enough state for acute care,” said Deb.
She has spoken with people have attempted to seek help at early stage, but the closest prevention and recovery program is in Bairnsdale. This is often out of reach for those struggling, which can compound their condition and may lead to far more serious consequences including suicide.
Donna urges those experiencing mental health issues to speak up.
“If you’re uncomfortable, reach out to me – I can connect you with help. It’s what Daniel would have wanted.”
Services need to be free Donna says, as money pressures cause situational stress and should not be a factor in people getting the help they need.
Deb Leonard says over the years she has seen the trauma caused to people and families in the community from mental health and suicide, both personally and through her work as a lawyer.
“We need to be able to provide these services at no cost and them easily accessible – it makes sense to invest in the health of our community.”
If you or someone you know needs support, talk to a GP or health professional or contact:
• Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36 or beyondblue.org.au.
• Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au.
• MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978 or mensline.org.au.
• Kids’ Helpline on 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au.
• SuicideLine Victoria 1300 651 251, suicideline.org.au offers free professional, confidential support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week across Victoria.
