Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug DirectorateDepartment of Health and Human Services

MENTAL HEALTH, ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG COLLECTIVE NEWS

synergy

SYNERGY ISSUE 1 JANUARY 20152

ISSUE 1 JANUARY 2015

FROM THE DIRECTOR 2

FROM THE MINISTER 3

FROM ALCOHOL, TOBACCO AND OTHER DRUGS COUNCIL INC. 4

FROM MENTAL HEALTH COUNCIL OF TASMANIA 5

NATIONAL ALCOHOL KNOWLEDGE BASE RESOURCE 6

TASMANIAN EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAM (TEIP) PROJECT 7

NATIONAL OPIOID SUBSTITUTION TREATMENT OVERVIEW 8

ADVOCACY TASMANIA ANNUAL FORUM 9

TASMANIAN ALCOHOL, TOBACCO AND OTHER DRUGS AWARDS 10

TASMANIAN LIFE AWARDS 2015 11

SPOTLIGHT ON DR MICHAEL KELLY 14

ACT-BELONG-COMMIT 16

LET’S RETHINK MENTAL HEALTH 18

PARTNERS IN RECOVERY 19

FROM THE CHIEF PSYCHIATRIST 20

THE MENTAL HEALTH ACT 2013 21

MENTAL HEALTH WEEK 2014 22

MENTAL HEALTH CARERS TASMANIA 30TH ANNIVERSARY 23

MESSAGE FROMTHE DIRECTORHello and welcome to Synergy.I’m looking forward to bringing you a quarterly round up of the significant work being undertaken across the mental health, alcohol, tobacco and other drug sector, and I’d like to thank Jann Smith CEO of the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Council, and Darren Carr CEO of the Mental Health Council of Tasmania for coming on board with their support for this new publication.

There is no doubt we are in the midst of a challenging time within the combined mental health and alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) space, as a number of significant projects which have been profiled in this issue, get underway.

Yet alongside these challenges come a range of opportunities, and as I read through this edition, there is no missing that the focus of all the work happening across the sector is firmly centred on achieving better outcomes for consumers, their families and carers.

From the Tasmanian Early Intervention Program Community Development Project Responding to Underage Drinking profiled on page 7, to the ATOD Consumer Forum hosted by Advocacy Tasmania and profiled on page 9; the Rethink Mental Health Project which you can read about on page 18, to the LiFE Awards Winners showcased on page 12, it is clear that our sector is full of individuals and organisations that are passionate about helping Tasmanians living with the impact of mental illness and alcohol, tobacco or other drug misuse achieve the best possible health outcomes and lead a full and contributing life.

I hope this publication will facilitate knowledge and engagement within and between sectors, while providing a showcase of the good work that is occurring by consumers, carers, individuals and organisations to a broad audience.

I welcome any feedback or suggestions you may have on this or future editions provided to director.mhadd@dhhs.tas.gov.au

Cheers, Nick

Nick GoddardActing Director Mental Health, Alcohol & Drug Directorate

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MESSAGE FROMTHE MINISTER I’m pleased to be able to celebrate this first edition of Synergy, as a new resource for the work that’s happening across the alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) and mental health sectors here in Tasmania.There is no doubt that both the ATOD and mental health sectors need to continue to work together; building strong partnerships and collaborating where possible, to develop services that meet the needs of all Tasmanians, now and into the future.

The Government is committed to tackling the important mental health and ATOD issues that are impacting on Tasmanians every day, and supporting those who work in the sectors to do so. I’m excited to have launched the Rethink Mental Health Project in October. The Rethink project is part of our commitment to developing an integrated Tasmanian mental health system that provides support in the right place, at the right time and with clear signposts about where and how to get help. With the strong cross-linkages between the ATOD and mental health sectors, I hope the Rethink project will result in benefits for both sectors.We have also committed to significant investment in suicide prevention, and I look forward to keeping you updated throughout 2015 as work progresses in these areas.While there is much to be done at a service and system level, it is also important to remember that we all have the opportunity to take action to protect our mental wellbeing and educate ourselves about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.There are so many great resources available to help us increase our knowledge and share information with friends, colleagues and family. I’ve enjoyed reading in this issue about two such initiatives – the Act-Belong-Commit campaign being rolled out across Tasmania, which you can find out about on page 16, and the National Alcohol Knowledge Base, profiled on page 6, which provides facts and data in an easy-to-understand format. It is my hope this publication is seen as a showcase of the innovation, hard work and achievement from so many parts of these sectors as we work together to improve the lives of Tasmanians who are impacted by mental illness and alcohol, tobacco and other drug misuse. I look forward to keeping up-to-date with future editions.

Michael FergusonMinister for Health, Tasmanian Government

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MESSAGE FROMALCOHOL, TOBACCO AND OTHER DRUGS COUNCIL TAS INC.The Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Council of Tasmania (ATDC) welcomes this first edition of a newsletter that is dedicated to the promotion and celebration of the achievements of the Alcohol and Drug and Mental Health sectors. The opportunity to share our practice knowledge, our ideas for innovation and the lessons from program evaluation will help us all to create a sustainable and effective service system that supports Tasmanians to achieve better health and wellbeing.

The ATDC is the peak body representing the interests of the community sector ATOD services in Tasmania. We advocate on behalf of the organisations who work with those experiencing harm from substance use to ensure resources are directed to our sector; that State and National health and social policy takes into account the needs of substance users and their families; and that our communities are provided with accurate information about the issues linked to substance use.

There is considerable evidence that the greatest harms experienced from substance use occur in communities with the lowest levels of social support, integration and social cohesion. Where income is low, unemployment high, participation in education short and social isolation common. Where social capital is low, harm from alcohol, tobacco and drugs is often greatest. These issues cannot be resolved by focussing solely on the behaviour of the individual experiencing these pressures, but must be dealt with by addressing the systemic and social determinants underlying substance use.

It is overly simplistic to suggest that substance use is a choice, and that focussing on personal responsibility is the solution. Such opinions do little other than to marginalise and stigmatise people who use substances, people who have a right to accessible and appropriate health care from non-judgemental health care providers and the broader system. The ATDC is committed to challenging any discrimination that perpetuates harm as a result of alcohol, tobacco or drug use.

Services are required that offer a full spectrum of interventions from prevention of the uptake of harmful substance use through brief intervention, counselling, pharmacotherapy, detoxification, residential programs and aftercare. Such interventions are provided in Tasmania by non-government and government agencies and it is by embracing the principles of collaboration that we see community ATOD organisations working with professionals from a broad range of areas. In future editions, you will hear much more about this fantastic work being done across the State.

Jann SmithCEO Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Council (Tas) Inc.

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MESSAGE FROMMENTAL HEALTH COUNCIL OF TASMANIAIt is with great pleasure that I welcome Synergy.Synergy will aim to highlight the important work of the mental health sector in supporting some of Tasmania’s most vulnerable community members. This diverse and complex sector is made up of a broad range of service providers working in both clinical and community settings with people whose lives are impacted by mental illness.

With a vast array of different service providers, one of the most common challenges facing mental health consumers can be successfully navigating their way through the treatment and support systems. Particularly, at times when they may feel unwell and might be confused or frightened. Usually the care and support they receive within any one service provider is high quality and is decided in consultation with the client and is effective at achieving short-term goals. Strong co-ordination between different and diverse service providers is, unfortunately, less common.

The importance of service providers working together, and in strong partnership with clients, is well recognised. Both state and federal governments have made significant investments in services aimed at co-ordinating care amongst the broad range of service providers involved in people’s care.

The Mental Health Council of Tasmania recognises the importance of providers working together, with one of our six high-level strategic plan goals is for the Tasmanian community mental health sector to work collaboratively to achieve positive outcomes for the sector.

In this current time of significant social and structural reform impacting on people living with mental illness, their carers and services working with them; it is more important than ever that we all work together, and in equal partnership with consumers and carers.

I encourage all those who read this publication to talk in your family, friendship and social circles about mental health. The more we create a safe and accepting environment so that we hear people’s stories relating to mental illness, the safer it will be for people to reach out for support and help we all sometimes need. You will also be doing your bit to create a society where people living with a mental illness receive the respect they deserve, enabling all those whose lives are touched by mental illness to live full and contributing lives.

Darren CarrCEO Mental Health Council of Tasmania

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NATIONAL ALCOHOL KNOWLEDGE BASELAUNCHES EASY TO UNDERSTAND DATA RESOURCE The National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction (NCETA), with support of the Australian Government Department of Health recently launched Australia’s first comprehensive online National Alcohol and Drug Knowledgebase (NADK).

This website draws on the highest quality Australian data to provide accurate and easy-to-understand information about alcohol and other drugs. A series of frequently asked questions (FAQs) is used to present data in an easily understood manner.

The amount of information available on alcohol and other drugs can be confusing, and it can be difficult to know how to evaluate and assess the available data. The NADK uses consensus derived quality standards to select the appropriate data to answer specific questions. The FAQs presented in the NADK aim to use the most up-to-date data available.

Currently, the Alcohol Section of the Knowledgebase contains more than 130 frequently asked questions (FAQs) including information about:

Consumption patterns

Alcohol use and the workplace

Alcohol-related harms

The impact of alcohol consumption on crime and violence

Treatment

Alcohol and young people In developing the Alcohol Section of the Knowledgebase, NCETA sourced all of the available alcohol-related datasets produced in Australia and as new data becomes available the Knowledgebase will be revised and updated to ensure that it is current and reliable.

Over time, NCETA will expand the Knowledgebase to include information about a range of illicit and pharmaceutical drugs.

The Knowledgebase can be accessed from: http://nadk.flinders.edu.au/ and also from the NCETA homepage: www.nceta.flinders.edu.au

In the first instance, the Knowledgebase addresses alcohol and in the near future other drug topics will also be covered.

The Knowledgebase is a valuable resource, providing health practitioners, researchers, policy makers and the general public a valuable new tool to help them address alcohol-related issues. We encourage you to check it out!

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TASMANIAN EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAM (TEIP) COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT RESPONDING TO UNDERAGE DRINKINGThis exciting project, which arose from the Early Intervention Pilot Program under the National Binge Drinking Strategy, has been approved and is supported by a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding between the Tasmanian Health Organisation – South through Alcohol and Drug Services (ADS); the Department through the Directorate; and the Department of Police and Emergency Management (DPEM) to work together to develop a sustainable model to respond to underage drinking within the Clarence Plains community. The Department of Education (DoE) through Learning Services South is also a key player. The primary objective is to support a project to develop a sustainable model to respond (better) to underage drinking within the Clarence Plains community, including both primary and high schools identified in collaboration with the DoE Learning Services South, and community-based organisations.

Other objectives are to:

complement DoE curricula on health promoting behaviours in relation to alcohol use.

support the development and maintenance of health promoting, safe, supportive and inclusive school environments; and enhance the knowledge and understanding of teachers and support staff in relation to alcohol use as relevant.

inform, engage and involve the local community in information, discussions and identifying possible solutions to any alcohol-related issues within the community, in partnership with DoE, the Drug Education Network (DEN) and identified community organisations.

Oversight is being provided by a TEIP Steering Committee, comprising representatives of the DPEM, DHHS (THO-S ADS and the Directorate), DoE and University of Tasmania and a Project Officer position based within the ADS State Office supports work on this project.

If you would like more information about the project, please contact the TEIP Project Officer on dale.williams@dhhs.tas.gov.au

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NATIONAL OPIOID SUBSTITUTION TREATMENTOVERVIEWPROJECT OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCEA new project of national significance in the alcohol, tobacco and other drug sector is looking at the delivery of Opioid Substitution Treatment (OST)Pharmacotherapies. Opioids are commonly prescribed for chronic pain management, however there can often be adverse outcomes associated with long-term use of opioids. This includes issues with dependence, drug seeking behaviour, and drug misuse. Opioid substitution pharmacotherapy is the prescribing of regular doses of legally prescribed opioid pharmacotherapy drugs to enable opioid users to reduce or stop illegal, harmful and dangerous drug use.

This project aims to determine and provide evidence for any changes that may be needed to enhance client outcomes of participating in OST programs, and make the treatment of opioid dependence with pharmaceuticals more accessible, equitable and affordable for clients.

The project is working closely with the Commonwealth Department of Health’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Division and other key national stakeholders to analyse current arrangements in the delivery of the OST program, and consider a range of issues and recommendations raised in existing literature.

A Request for Quotation process has been undertaken by the Directorate, and the contract awarded to Siggins Miller Consultants. To date, the consultants have drafted the Literature Review; undertaken initial costs analyses in conjunction with the Commonwealth Department of Health Pharmaceutical Benefits Division and all state and territory health departments; and drafted a background paper on the benefits of the OST program, current arrangements and monetary costs that together with the Literature Review will inform key informant interviews.

The final paper will provide an evidence based rationale for implementing changes that will lead to:

improved client outcomes for those participating in OST programs

improved equity for OST clients, the same currently available to clients with other long-term chronic health problems

improved access to and retention in OST programs

increased numbers of community pharmacies and prescribers that participate in OST programs

The Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Directorate is taking the lead on this important project which has been approved as an Inter-Governmental Committee on Drugs (IGCD) Cost Shared Funding Model Project under the ICGD 2013-14 Work Plan which has been approved through the Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol Principal Committee and the Australian Health Ministers’ Advisory Council.

A Project Team has been formed to govern the project, including a part-time Project officer. The Project Team is supported by a Tasmanian Reference Group and a National Reference Group. Regular reports are being provided to the Inter-Governmental Committee on Drugs.

If you are interested in keeping up to date with progress on this important project, contact the Project Officer Mary Sharpe on mary.sharpe@dhhs.tas.gov.au

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ADVOCACYTASMANIAANNUAL CONSUMER ENGAGEMENT FORUMAdvocacy Tasmania Inc. conducts an annual forum as part of its Consumer Engagement program. In its first year the forum was attended solely by service providers and discussion centred on how the Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drug sector in Tasmania was going to increase consumer engagement. It then progressed to a forum with both service providers and consumers discussing the gaps and how to move forward. In 2014 the forum was developed by a working party that consisted of the Consumer Engagement Officer and three Consumer Representatives. The working party determined both the agenda and the guest list. As a result, the forum was attended primarily by consumers with representatives from the Alchohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Council (ATDC) and Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) also in attendance. The positive move from a service provider forum to a forum driven and attended by consumers is a credit both to the program and to the consumers who have been actively involved over the last two and a half years.

The forum focused on unity and formal presentations were given by the ATI Consumer Reference Group, Tasmania Users Health and Support League (TUHSL) and Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL). Attendees discussed where the gaps are in the system and why a united consumer voice is critical for the Tasmanian community. All attendees felt that collaboration between TUHSL and the Consumer Reference Group was the best way forward and a number of steps were put in place to work towards this outcome. The afternoon was then spent workshopping opportunities for input into current policy level issues, potential avenues for accessing funding and practical ways to start increasing the profile of consumers in Tasmania.

One of the key goals of Advocacy Tasmania’s Consumer Engagement Program has been to support the establishment of a drug user organisation in Tasmania. Advocacy Tasmania sees the strong emergence of such a group as essential for our state. People are the experts in themselves and only a drug user organisation can truly represent the views and concerns of people who use drugs. The forum appeared to be a positive step towards this outcome and we hope that the meaningful input of people who use drugs in Tasmania continues to be placed firmly on the agenda.

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TASMANIAN ATDC AWARDS WINNERS RECOGNISEDThe Tasmanian Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Awards recognise, promote and reward outstanding practice in the alcohol, tobacco and other drugs field in Tasmania.The awards are hosted by the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Council and have been held annually for the past three years. In 2014, the Awards were held during Drug Action Week, a nationally recognised week that aims to raise awareness about ATOD issues in Australia.

The overarching theme of Drug Action Week in 2014 was Drugs, Communities and Families, fitting well with the Awards, which celebrate the achievements of people working in the sector to reduce alcohol and drug related harm.

The awards are presented in four categories, with nominations made by colleagues and managers but may be made by clients and consumer or relatives.

The Early Career Award – presented to Debbie Hollinger, Case Manager - Kids In Focus, Anglicare Tasmania

Debbie began working in January 2014 after many years training and volunteering in the sector. Debbie’s commitment to harm minimisation; embracing of consumer participation and self-determination; and her evidence based, holistic approach are enabling her clients to achieve positive outcomes.

The Emerging Researcher Award – presented to Dr Amy Peacock, postdoctoral research fellow in the psychopharmacology laboratory in the School of Psychology, University of Tasmania

Amy completed her PhD is less than 3 years, undertaking a series of studies examining the use and effects of alcohol mixed with energy drinks.

The results of Amy’s research have been shared with the ATOD sector during ATDC education and training events as well as being published in top-tier peer-reviewed journals.

The Excellence in ATOD Work Award – presented to Liz Moore, Acting Coordinator of the Southern Court Mandated Diversion team, Tasmanian Department of Justice

Liz has extensive experience in managing people with addictions to alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs. She has case managed offenders with Corrective Services for over 23 years, in Risdon Prison, Community Corrections (Probation & Parole) and currently in Court Mandated Diversion (CMD) (the Drug Court). Liz finds it rewarding to witness long-term behavioural change as participants are able to achieve their goals of breaking the drug-crime cycle and becoming sustainably drug-free and crime-free.

The Outstanding Contributions Award – presented to Tamara Speed, formerly of Anglicare Tasmania

Tamara has played a significant role in the ATOD sector in Tasmania over a number of years; she is an advocate for innovation and a staunch advocate for consumer participation.

Tamara remains deeply committed and works tirelessly to reduce stigma and discrimination against ATOD consumers. Her evidence-based expansion of ATOD practice has brought ATOD services into the reach of an increasing number of vulnerable population groups.

The work of the ATOD sector brings improvements to health, family relationships, and ability to function in society, and we congratulate all nominees and winners of the 2014 Tasmanian Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Awards.

Images (clockwise from top left) Debbie Hollinger and Jann Smith, Amy Peacock, Michael Pervan, Liz Moore and Jann Smith, and Tamara Speed

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In 2014, the panel had a very difficult task to decide from excellent nominations for the three Tasmanian LiFE Awards. The awards recognise life-affirming work in suicide prevention.

In 2014, twice as many nominations were received compared to 2013, and the nominators and nominees are to be thanked for the time and effort they have put into their applications. The nominations highlight the wonderful work that is being done by Tasmanian individuals, services and businesses to help reduce the rate and impact of suicide in the State.

I would like to thank all nominees and nominators, including:

Mitch McPherson nominated by Sally Tew

David Hayden nominated by Kate Taylor and Lifeline

Louise Leslie nominated by Alderman Annette Rockliff

Young Migrant English Program nominated by Beth Lord and the Phoenix Centre

Tenisha Jones nominated by Joyce Langmaid

Huon Aquaculture Pty Ltd nominated by Cameron Blight and Worksafe Tasmania

CALD Community Connections Project Team nominated by Lucy McGregor

Standby Response Service South nominated by Kate Taylor and Lifeline

Choose Life Services nominated by Alderman Annette Rockliff

Personal Helpers and Mentor Program Sorell, nominated by Brett Williams

TASMANIAN LiFE AWARDS 2014

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...AND THE WINNERS OF THE 2014 TASMANIAN LiFE AWARDS ARE...

Written by Victoria Vyvyan Senior Worker, Education and Development, Relationships Australia Tasmania

TSPCN Best Practice Service Provision LiFE Award

STANDBY RESPONSE SOUTHStandby Response South responds to individuals, families, communities, schools, organisations and businesses where there has been a suicide. For every death by suicide there are many people who are significantly affected, and these people will experience a range of emotions and trauma. The service responds to these people immediately, and the telephone service is staffed 24 hours a day, and face to face outreach service is provided as soon as possible. They provide workshops, information and guidance in addition to counselling, support and referral to services and volunteers through their networks.

Standby Response South began in southern Tasmania in 2009, and is one of 16 Standby Response services strategically located in areas of need around Australia. In the last 12 months Standby Response South has provided 160 contacts and referrals and supported 50 bereaved clients. 500 people have been supported since its inception, 6 years ago. The work that they do touches people’s lives at a very distressing time, and is practical, thoughtful and resourceful.

TASMANIAN LiFE AWARDS 2014

Image (left) Anna Tooth, Minister for Health Michael Ferguson

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Tasplan Outstanding Contribution LiFE Award

DAVID HAYDENDavid has provided 21 years of support to people at risk of suicide and facing crisis by volunteering approximately 15,000 hours to Lifeline Tasmania. He joined as a telephone counselor in 1993, and has gone on to be volunteer Supervisor on Call and also assist with the training of new telephone crisis support volunteers. David does this work in addition to having his own counselling practice, and is described as being the epitome of a non-judgemental, person-centred support and mentor to many people.

It is people such as David that are the backbone of so many of our community based organisations, and without them these services would not be able to respond to the need in the community.

Red Herring Surf Communities in Action LiFE Award

YOUNG MIGRANT ENGLISH PROGRAMThis program, run through TasTAFE Hobart, and the staff that work within it, have responded to a need that they identified to increase the mental health and wellbeing and resilience of the young people in the program who come from asylum seeker and refugee backgrounds. Young Migrant English Program (YMEP) Staff go above and beyond to smooth the path and assist these young people in their transition to a new and often strange country.

Staff have built into the curriculum suicide prevention and stigma reduction workshops, resilience workshops, drumbeat and The Tree of Life program. These young people have been supported to develop leadership skills, and this, along with the suicide prevention, stigma reduction, and resilience emphasis that has been built in to the YMEP program will have a lasting impact for the young people, their families and the communities that they belong to. This early intervention work is comprehensive, innovative and collaborative.

TSPCN Best Practice Business and Enterprise LiFE Award

HUON AQUACULTURE PTY LTDHuon Aquaculture have a team of over 480 people across Australia, some of their workforce are located in a rural area in southern Tasmania that has some health and wellbeing challenges. They introduced a program to educate staff about the use of drugs and alcohol and mental health, and through this and their testing of staff referred staff to Holyoake. Through this program they identified a number of staff who had other significant issues that were also impacting their lives, including depression, suicidal ideation, addiction, and violence in the home. They supported workers to get the help they needed by providing transport to appointments in Hobart by taxi, counselling, inviting Holyoake to bring their service to the employees once a week, and providing alternative emergency accommodation where violence at home was an issue.

Even when employees were at risk of or had their employment terminated because of drug and alcohol problems, the company understood that other underlying issues were a key factor, and Huon Aquaculture provided access to appropriate support. Through this, these employees have been able to regain their positions within the company. This program has assisted over 25 staff from all levels of the company in this location with drug, alcohol, relationship and mental health issues. Staff, who work in a typically male environment are usually reluctant to speak out about issues. They are now speaking from experience and promoting the program to others.

Image (above) Marcus Walmsley, Minister for Health Michael Ferguson

Image (above right) David Hayden, Anna Tooth (below right) Mary Parsissons

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SPOTLIGHT ONDR MICHAEL KELLYChair of the Tasmanian Suicide Prevention Community Network (TSPCN)

1. For those of us who aren’t familiar with the TSPCN, can you tell us a bit about it?

The TSPCN is a network of community organisations, individuals and businesses that have an interest in reducing the rate and impact of suicide in Tasmania. It provides a forum so that people who work on the ground can come together with policy makers and community members to talk about the issues that they encounter in their work and in their communities. We meet every six weeks or so. The meetings are held across the state and we meet in Hobart, Burnie, Launceston and Campbell Town.

The meetings are a great place to update each other and exchange information but also to provide support to those that work in this challenging but rewarding field. As Chair I am also able to represent members of the TSPCN and take issues to the Tasmanian Suicide Prevention Committee. As well as networking and supporting suicide prevention, intervention and postvention work, the TSPCN has a number of projects, which ensure that there are lasting benefits beyond the exchange of information and support.

2. What are some of the key highlights you think the TSPCN has achieved since it has been in operation?

In a short period of time the TSPCN has grown to a network of over 80 members, most of whom attend meetings when they are in their location. I think that says a lot about the commitment of people to reducing the rate and impact of suicide in Tasmania. Of the projects and work of the TSPCN, the first TSPCN Annual Suicide Prevention Forum held in Hobart last year was a great success, we had over 100 people attending the event, and speakers and workshop leaders from interstate and locally made for an interesting program. At that event we also presented the Tasmanian LiFE Awards, and celebrated the work of people like Ran Thapa and the Bhutanese Community, Mary Parsissons from Lifeline, and the Mental Health Council of Tasmania. For a small State I think we punch above our weight when we hear the stories and the experiences of people like our LiFE Award recipients.

We also launched the Tasmanian LGBTI Suicide Prevention Action Plan and working groups across the State are progressing actions identified in the plan. It was great to see a business like RACT come on board and work on the first community action plan for suicide prevention for their staff, contractors and families. This was a really proactive and innovative process culminating in a plan to increase the mental health and capacity of the RACT family.

3. Why do you think the role of the TSPCN is so important?

When resources are limited, whether financially or people’s time and energy, having the support of the TSPCN members, and drawing on the experience and knowledge of the members is really invaluable. I think the TSPCN has brought together that experience and collective wisdom which is really key to what actions we take to reduce suicide and build the mental health and capacity of Tasmanians. We all have to work together if we are going to tackle this issue, and the TSPCN does work together with that aim in mind.

4. What’s next up on the agenda for the TSPCN?

We have an exciting year ahead of us, and we are planning the next TSPCN Annual Suicide Prevention Forum and Tasmanian LiFE Awards, this time in Launceston in late September. For things like this, the TSPCN has a working group that utilises the skills and experience of the members. I am looking forward to this year’s Annual Suicide Prevention Forum, and increasing the involvement of clinical, non clinical services and community and business members in this event and the TSPCN membership.

We will also see the completion of the mapping project that we have been undertaking. This will bring together a directory of services and supports for early intervention, suicide prevention, intervention and postvention in Tasmania. It’s important that we have a handle on what

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services and supports there are and what the gaps are, so we are mapping the gaps and service coverage across the State using a number of different lenses, including geography, cost, specialised services and waiting times. This information will be really useful to help plan what we need to focus on in the next few years.

The Glenorchy Suicide Prevention Network has launched their Community Action Plan for Suicide Prevention, and the TSPCN would really like to encourage and support other communities, whether they are geographic communities like Glenorchy, or other types of communities to get together to look at what the issues are for them, and what actions would make a difference in suicide prevention for their community.

5. What do you find most rewarding about your role as Chair of TSPCN?

One of the things that I find most rewarding in my role as the Chair of the TSPCN is working with a group of people who are so passionate and committed to reducing suicide in Tasmania. After each of the meetings, I always come away inspired by the great work that organisations, businesses and members of the community do each and every day to lessen the impact of suicide in this State.

The other rewarding aspect of my role as Chair of the TSPCN is the opportunity to meet with people from the community who are keen to make a difference in suicide prevention. Meeting people like Mitch McPherson who founded Speak Up Stay ChatTY is always inspiring.

6. How do you look after your own mental wellbeing?

I have a fairly simple approach to maintaining my own mental wellbeing. I am a big believer in the benefits of physical activity and go to the gym 6 days a week. I try to eat well about 80% of the time, there’s so much great food in Tasmania it’s hard to stick to a 100% healthy diet all the time. Getting enough sleep is also something that I try to do. It’s easy to underestimate the benefits of getting the amount of sleep you need on a consistent basis.

My children, wife and family are also a great source of joy in my life and help keep me grounded.

7. What would you say to people who think suicide may be an issue in their community, and who want to help but aren’t sure what to do?

We all have a part to play, and just asking someone how they are is an important step in making sure that people get the help they need. You might not be able to solve a person’s problem, or expect to be the answer, but most of us have the capacity to help someone make a phone call to get help. It’s that simple, being a friend, taking the time to ask and to listen. Most people will experience some down times in their lives, if you’ve had that experience, think about what might or did help you get through those times?

Suicide prevention is all about early intervention, and building the mental health and wellbeing of everyone in the community.

You can get scared off thinking that you don’t know what to do or how to talk about suicide, and indeed whether asking a person whether they are thinking about suicide might make them more inclined to take act on those thoughts.

The best way to prevent suicide is to make it OK to talk about suicide, you are not putting the idea in people’s heads by asking about it.

There are some great courses run in the community that give people the tools and skills to respond to people who are thinking about suicide

We all should know a little about first aid, and likewise we should all know enough to help someone who has hit rock bottom.

8. Anything else you want to share with us?

Suicide prevention for young people needs to be a priority in Tasmania. The loss of any life to suicide in this state is one too many, it is particularly tragic when it is a life of a young person that has ended too soon.

Dr Michael KellyChair of the Tasmanian Suicide Prevention Community Network

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ACT-BELONG-COMMITThe Act-Belong-Commit initiative was launched in early 2014 by the Mental Health Council of Tasmania, and aims to encourage people to think about the steps they could take to protect and strengthen their own mental wellbeing.Often when we think about mental health, our focus is on mental ill health, but Act-Belong-Commit is about exploring the ways we can become more mentally healthy.

The A-B-C guidelines for positive mental health encourage people to Act – by being more mentally, physically and socially active; Belong – by joining local clubs and organisations and Commit – by increasing their level of commitment to the activities they engage with.

The Act-Belong-Commit campaign is a world-first evidence-based health promotion campaign, first introduced in Western Australia by Mentally Health WA (Curtin University).

Adopting these guidelines across communities has been shown to reduce the long-term outcomes of mental health problems including depression, suicide, anti-social behaviour, alcohol and drug abuse and juvenile delinquency.

Since launching, the campaign has been adopted at a range of community events including Agfest, the biggest Agricultural Festival in the Southern Hemisphere, where approximately 300-400 people learnt about act-belong-commit over three days.

The Friends School in Hobart has also run a series of interactive workshops and lessons around Act-Belong-Commit in conjunction with a health promotion officer from headspace. The sessions reached around 100 year 10 students, and were centred on how to stay mentally healthy by expanding their horizons in terms of belonging to groups and developing volunteer projects. There was also a focus around help seeking behaviour and how you can support a friend in crisis.

A statewide theme of Act-Belong-Commit was also adopted for Mental Health Week 2014. A wide-range of events were held across the state between 6-11 October 2014. A wrap-up of Mental Health Week is provided on the following pages.

Key to the success of the Act-Belong-Commit campaign, is developing partnerships with local organisations; and since its launch a number of local organisations have adopted the campaign including Glenorchy City Council who have included the Act-Belong-Commit campaign in their Community Action Plan for Suicide Prevention; Clarence City Council who are working on including the Act-Belong-Commit campaign in key events throughout the year.

Volunteering Tasmania and Health Promotion South have also come on board as partners who will work together on projects and promote Act-Belong-Commit wherever possible.

The Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Directorate funds the Mental Health Council of Tasmania to deliver the A-B-C initiative.

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LET’S RETHINK MENTAL HEALTH WHAT IS THE RETHINK MENTAL HEALTH PROJECT? The Rethink Mental Health Project is a key part of the government’s commitment - A long term plan for mental health.

This is a commitment to develop an integrated Tasmanian mental health system that provides support in the right place, at the right time and with clear signposts about where and how to get help.

The focus is on achieving better outcomes for consumers, their families and carers from existing mental health expenditure and directing resources onto frontline services and support.

The Rethink Mental Health Project will provide an independent analysis of Tasmanian public, private, federal, state and community sector delivered mental health services. It will map existing services and identify gaps and barriers and it will make recommendations for system reform and strategic investment into services, workforce and capital infrastructure.

The result will be a long term plan for mental health in Tasmania that guides investment into the next decade.

The need to explore new long-term supported accommodation options for people with mental illness, along with the need to develop a comprehensive plan for the mental health of older people has also been recognised by the Government. The Rethink Project will consider both of these areas.

The project will be highly consultative, seeking views from consumers, their families and carers, clinicians, service providers and other key stakeholders.

The Mental Health Council of Tasmania is playing a lead role in the Rethink Project, working in partnership with the Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Directorate.

A Steering Committee has been established to support the Project. Consumers, families and carers, community sector organisations, clinicians, acute and primary health care are represented on this Committee.

A Discussion Paper has been prepared to start the discussion about our mental health service system, what it looks like now, what it should look like into the future and what should be in our a long term plan for mental health in Tasmania. You can download a copy of the discussion paper online at www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/rethink or if you would like a hard copy of the discussion paper, please call 03 6166 0770.

How you can get involved and have your say

Your feedback is important. We want to know how we can design a mental health system to achieve better outcomes for consumers, their families and carers.

We want to know your views about Tasmania’s mental health service system. We want to know what is working well, what we need to do differently, what are the gaps and what the opportunities are for the future.

The areas highlighted in the Discussion Paper aim to start the discussion, it is not intended to limit other ideas and solutions that you may contribute to develop a more effective mental health service system in Tasmania.

There are many ways that you can get involved and have your say.

Consultation Forums A range of consultation forums are being held around the state. More information is available at www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/rethink or by calling 03 6166 0770

Online You can provide feedback via this online feedback form

Phone Call us on 03 6166 0770 to provide your feedback

Email Email us at rethink@dhhs.tas.gov.au

Post Write to us at Rethink Mental Health Project GPO Box 125 Hobart, TAS 7001

Feedback closes on 28 February 2015

Keeping Updated with Project News

If you want to receive regular updates on the progress of the Rethink Mental Health Project, send an email to rethink@dhhs.tas.gov.au with Subscribe to E-News in the subject line.

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PARTNERS IN RECOVERYPROMOTING COLLECTIVE OWNERSHIP AND ENCOURAGING INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TO SUSTAIN OPTIMAL HEALTH AND WELLBEINGPartners in Recovery (PIR) started in Tasmania in 2014. It provides assistance to people with severe and persistent mental illness and complex needs who require support from multiple agencies. The program aims to better support these people and their carers and families by getting services and supports from multiple sectors to meet their needs - such as accommodation, drug and alcohol, emergency assistance, self-care, safety and physical and mental health supports and services.

The program has Support Facilitators located across Tasmania in urban, regional and remote locations, usually co-located with other services.

PIR’s recovery based philosophy is based on the belief that people are the experts on their own lives. Together we build relationships so that ideas can be provoked, and all possible opportunities and resources can be explored. This way people can make informed choices, and self-direct their lives, reaching their full potential.

People who may be eligible for PIR:

Have a diagnosed mental illness that is severe and persistent

Have complex needs that require services from multiple agencies

Require substantial support and assistance to engage with services and supports

Have inadequate existing coordination arrangements in place to assist in accessing the necessary services, and

Have indicated their consent and willingness to being involved in PIR.

PIR is about facilitating coordination of and streamlining access to clinical and other services and supports. PIR complements services that support people who may be separated from appropriate supports or who are unable to have their needs met.

PIR owes its successful start to the strong support it has received from families, carers and services across Tasmania.

Support Facilitators are employed by five agencies, which together have formed a Consortium (Anglicare, Colony 47, Aspire, Relationships Australia and Richmond Fellowship).

There is also a Reference group made up of representatives from the Department of Health and Human Services, Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Council, Flourish, Mental Health Carers Tasmania, Mental Health Council of Tasmania, National Disability Services, Private Hospitals Association, Shelter Tasmania, the Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Directorate and Tasmania Medicare Local.

PIR has consulted widely and gained valuable input from people with a lived experience of mental illness, their families and carers and services.

If you know of someone who you believe has a mental illness and complex needs, and requires someone to support them to access support or services, please contact PIR. You can:

Ring Partners in Recovery on 1300 TASPIR (1300 827747), or

Email Hermione Hickling (hermioneh@colony47.com.au) in the south or

Email Trish Hickey (trishh@anglicare-tas.org.au) in the north/north-west.

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MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF PSYCHIATRIST DR LEN LAMBETH Welcome to the first issue of Synergy.As Chief Psychiatrist, I undertake the roles of Chief Civil Psychiatrist and Chief Forensic Psychiatrist, both of which are legislated for under the Mental Health Act 2013. It is my privilege to occupy both roles.

Sitting within the Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Directorate, my role includes providing high level specialist advice about mental health policy and clinical practice to the Minister, across the Department of Health and Human Services, to Tasmanian Health Organisations and to other operating units wherever appropriate.

Tasmania’s new Mental Health Act is the result of many years of consultation and discussion and represents a relatively new and major advance in the treatment of those living with mental illness. It is a significant reform in the legal framework for the care and treatment of people with mental illness in Tasmania. It places an emphasis on the ability of patients to make decisions about treatment of their illness whenever they have the capacity to do so. It has as its foundations, Tasmania’s commitment to Human Rights legislation and to the recovery model of mental illness.

My vision is to ensure that all Tasmanians have access to high quality, evidenced based and recovery focused mental health care. This will be achieved by ensuring that we maintain a patient centred approach, focusing on quality and safety and constant improvement in a collaborative and transparent manner.

Tasmania’s widely dispersed and largely rural population presents us with challenges. Access to the right care, in the right place, at the right time is always a challenge. Ensuring that our patients receive comprehensive assessment and then are appropriately referred in a timely manner is vital if they are to receive the care and treatment that they need.

We also need to take a preventative approach to decreasing the distress and hurt too often associated with mental ill health. A priority is to reduce the rate of suicide across all age groups, utilising a collaborative approach

between mental health professionals and the entire community. Ensuring that our patients have their physical health needs met along with their mental health needs is a major element of our overall focus to treat the whole person.

Perhaps one of the most important barriers to recovery is the stigma that people living with mental ill health sadly, too often experience. As mental health professionals, we must combat this in every way possible. Stigma is often based upon fear, but, for the most part, a fear that has little basis in evidence. As professionals, we need to look within ourselves and examine our own attitudes and prejudices and be sure that we do our utmost to correct stigmatising attitudes and behaviours whenever we are confronted by them.

There are no doubt challenges ahead as we continue to operate in an environment of reform; however, as professionals we will best deal with the challenges that confront us if we have, as the basis for our practice, values incorporating care for our patients, co-operation with our stakeholders, striving for excellence and displaying integrity in our professional lives.

I cannot help but be impressed with the dedication and professionalism of our mental health clinicians and with our partners in providing care including Police, Ambulance and community sector organisations, with which we have a strong collaborative relationship. There is every reason to be optimistic that we will meet and overcome any challenges presented to us so long as we maintain our focus placing the needs of those we serve – our patients, consumers and those who support and care for them – at the centre of all we do.

I look forward to sharing more in future editions.

Clinical Assoc Prof Leonard LambethChief Psychiatrist Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Directorate

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THE MENTAL HEALTH ACT 2013 The Mental Health Act 2013 has been in operation since 17 February 2014.The Act balances consumer rights with the need for treatment, while also recognising the important role played by carers and family members of people with a mental illness. It enables people with capacity to make their own treatment choices, while facilitating treatment for people who lack decision-making capacity and who need treatment for their own health or safety, or for the safety of others.

The legislation represents a significant improvement in the protection of the rights of mental health consumers in Tasmania.

You can access a copy of the Mental Health Act 2013 from www.thelaw.tas.gov.au.

As is to be expected with any new piece of legislation introducing a significantly different framework, a period of adjustment has been required while the Act is embedded in operational practice. The Mental Health Act project team, including the Chief Psychiatrist continues to work with stakeholders to provide revised and updated information, training and education resources and transparent discussion as issues arise.

The Chief Psychiatrist and representatives from the Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Directorate also continue to work closely with the Mental Health Tribunal to review and refine any issues and identify ways in which the Act’s operation could be improved.

Information and Training Resources

A wide-range of information, education and training resources have been developed and are available online at www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/mentalhealth then click on the Mental Health Act logo.

General Information and Fact Sheets are available on a wide-range of topics including:

An Overview of the Mental Health Act 2013

What do I need to know? Information for Carers, Family Members, Representatives and Support Persons

Statement of Rights – for Involuntary Patients; Forensic Patients and Seclusion and Restraint

A Comprehensive Guide to the Mental Health Act 2013 for Clinicians

Education and Training Resources are available on a wide-range of topics including, but not limited to:

General Awareness

Capacity

The role and function of the Chief Psychiatrists

Consumer and Carer Rights

Seclusion and Restraint

The role and function of the Mental Health Tribunal

A number of flow charts have also been made available online.

These resources continue to be revised and updated, and we encourage you to check back regularly at www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/mentalhealthact and click on the Mental Health Act logo to ensure you have access to the most current information.

MENTAL HEALTH WEEK 2014Mental Health Week is held in October each year. It’s an important week – not only for the mental health sector, but for every member of the community.

Mental Health Week is about remembering that looking after our mental health is just as important as looking after our physical health.

During Mental Health Week, we can check in with our own mental wellbeing and think about what we’re doing to be mentally healthy.

We can use the week as an opportunity to educate ourselves, increasing our knowledge of mental illness; and by doing this we can play a role in reducing the stigma people living with mental ill health too-often experience.

Mental Health Week was held from 6-11 October in 2014. A wide-range of events were held across the state, all sharing the theme of Act, Belong, Commit.

These three pillars may seem unrelated to our mental wellbeing; but evidence shows that they are in fact fundamental to good mental health.

With around 60 000 Tasmanians experiencing mental ill-health each year, it’s imperative we use every opportunity available to us to share what we know, and encourage people to start taking action towards looking after their mental wellbeing.

Mental Health Week also includes World Mental Health Day, held on 10 October every year. On World Mental Health Day and beyond, Australians are encouraged to make a mental health promise to themselves. It doesn’t have to be long it just needs to be meaningful. Try and keep it short and achievable. You can make your mental health promise at 1010.org.au

The Tasmanian Government is proud to support Mental Health Week, by funding the Mental Health Council of Tasmania to deliver a small grants program for events as part of Mental Health Week.

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MENTAL HEALTH CARERS TASMANIA 30THANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONMental Health Carers Tasmania (MHCTas) celebrated its 30th Anniversary in October, during Carers Week. Until late 2012, MHCTas was known as ARAFMI or Association of Relatives and Friends of the Mentally Ill.

Although changing names; the core role of Mental Health Carers Tasmania has remained the same: to promote the rights and responsibilities of family members and carers of people with a mental illness; develop the capacity of family members and carers to enable them to effectively participate in their own care and contribute to the development of the mental health sector; develop relationships and mechanisms for working in partnership with other stakeholders to achieve the best possible

outcomes for people with mental illness, their family members and carers; and to provide independent representation and an informed voice for Tasmania’s family members and carers of mental health consumers to achieve systemic advocacy.

Health Minister Michael Ferguson attended the 30th Anniversary celebrations, saying “It’s so important to have an organisation like Mental Health Carers Tasmania providing individuals, families, friends and the wider community with support and a range of information to gain a better understanding of mental ill health and mental illness.”

Volunteers, staff and Board members from Mental Health Carers Tasmania, both past and present, are congratulated for their work in providing support and ensuring the perspective of those caring for people experiencing mental illness are part of the conversation around mental health.

Image (above) Kate Shipway, Wendy Groot, Gail Wilson, Minister for Health Michael Ferguson

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Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug DirectorateDepartment of Health and Human Services

Email director.mhadd@dhhs.tas.gov.auVisit www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/mentalhealthSynergy Edition One Published January 2015Copyright State of Tasmania 2015