More beds now open in State's first mental health unit for 16-24 year olds at Fiona Stanley Hospital
Community outreach service provides additional support for young people post discharge and reduces the need for inpatient care
An additional six beds will open today at Western Australia's dedicated mental health Youth Unit at Fiona Stanley Hospital.
Mental Health Minister Andrea Mitchell said the beds would provide better access to an age-appropriate hospital environment and model of service, for young people aged between 16 and 24 with acute mental illness.
"Between 16 and 24 can be a challenging phase of life for many people and is when the majority of mental health issues begin to emerge," Ms Mitchell said.
"If identified early enough, these issues can most often be dealt with within a community setting by appropriate counselling and treatment services, however some may require specialised hospital care."
An outreach Youth Community Assessment and Treatment Team service also launched in April 2016 as an extension of the Youth Unit to provide essential support to young people in the community.
The service will provide therapeutic care to young people in their preferred environment and link them into other services available within the community.
Health Minister John Day said the service provided timely support to young people in crisis.
"Specially trained clinicians work closely with schools, community managed organisations and primary health care providers to facilitate early assessment and treatment," Mr Day said.
"This reduces the likelihood of having to attend an emergency department and admission into hospital."
Young people are encouraged to seek help early to develop strategies to manage their mental health.
Young people can self-refer to the Youth Community Assessment and Treatment Team by phone (6152 7999) or be referred by their GP or a community support organisation.
Fact File
Mental health disorders affect about 26 per cent of young Australians each year and are more prevalent in people aged 16 to 24 than any other age group
75% of mental illnesses first occur between the ages of 16 and 25 years
The Youth Community Assessment and Treatment Team is the first community service of its kind in WA for 16 to 24-year-olds with complex mental health issues
In the first six months, the Youth Community Assessment and Treatment Team service:
Mental Health Minister's office - 6552 5400
Health Minister's office - 6552 6200
