Thursday, 9 September 2021

Mr NORTHE (Morwell)

Today is R U OK? Day and I wish to place on the record my gratitude and thanks to all those that work in and make a positive difference in the health and mental health sector. These are unique and difficult times and we are all acutely aware of the spike in mental health presentations and self-harm incidents, given the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. It really is horrible to contemplate that many of our loved ones who are starting out in their life journey, our children and young adults, might be experiencing such serious challenges. Unfortunately this is the reality for a number of individuals and families at present, given children have been missing out on school, socialising and participating in sport and recreation activities.

The Royal Children’s Hospital recently stated that it had observed a surge in admissions of children with mental health difficulties. Its mental health director, Dr Ric Haslam, said, and I quote, ‘The sorts of conditions that we’re seeing in the Royal Children’s Hospital are anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal behaviours and eating disorders.’ And unfortunately it’s not just our children and youth doing it tough at the moment, with various people struggling given the impacts to business, employment and social connections amongst other COVID-related issues.

But as mentioned I do want to say R U OK? to those working in the health and mental health sectors at the moment. Because the facts are these men and women have often gone over and beyond the call of duty these past 18 months or so. Those who are helping others through such challenging times can often struggle themselves given the pressures imposed upon them by the demand for their services.

It’s not widely known or even understood but whilst mental health services are currently stretched to extreme levels, mental health workers and their representative union are in a prolonged dispute with the state government over an enterprise bargaining agreement. We simply can’t afford to lose good, dedicated and committed people from the mental health system. There are currently nowhere enough workers in the system as it is and this dispute needs a prompt resolution and workers in the sector to be supported and appreciated. To give credit, the state government has recognised that the mental health system in Victoria is broken and it subsequently initiated a royal commission.

But at this juncture we are still a long way from ensuring that every person who needs to access mental health services can do so in their local community when they need it. This is the government’s objective and I believe it’s a good objective to aim for.

This R U OK? Day I encourage people to follow the four R U OK? steps. First, ask the R U OK? question to a friend, family member or work colleague. Second, listen to the person with an open mind. Third, encourage any actions and fourth, check in to see how the person is doing. These are small but important actions we can all take. By following these steps we can make a positive difference to others in our network. If you can help one person, then asking the question is worth it. It’s also okay to not be okay. Knowing what to do when we are not okay is crucial but speaking to a friend, a family member or health professional can make the world of difference. And please know you are not alone. For further information about R U OK? Day please visit the R U OK? website at https://www.ruok.org.au/