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Survey forms basis of WA mental health framework

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An online survey asking Western Australians in the resources industry to have their say about what they need to stay mentally healthy is available as part of World Mental Health Day.

The survey forms part of community consultation to develop a new WA Mental Health Wellbeing Framework.

World Mental Health Day was held on October 10 with the aim of challenging negative perceptions around mental illness and encouraging people to take a more positive view on mental illness.

The survey, which is the first community mental health survey in WA to focus specifically on wellbeing, will be open until the end of October.

The Mental Health Commission is developing the framework to identify initiatives that optimise wellbeing, keep people feeling good emotionally and functioning well psychologically and socially, and prevent mental health conditions.

According to the WA Government, these initiatives could then be delivered across the whole community or in settings where people learn, work and take part in sport and recreational activities.

The framework will also provide a guide for government agencies, community organisations and private industry to progress their own mental health wellbeing initiatives.

The Mental Health Commission is leading transformation of the mental health and alcohol and other drug sector, working collaboratively across government and with sector stakeholders to provide better outcomes for consumers.

Mental Health Minister Stephen Dawson said World Mental Health Day aims to empower people to look after their own mental health and provide support for others.

“As a community it is vital that we don’t only provide treatment for people experiencing a mental health crisis but focus on helping people gain and maintain a really good level of wellbeing,” he said.

“Research shows that actively promoting and encouraging mental wellbeing can make a difference to people’s mental health, preventing mental health conditions and alcohol and other drug-related issues in the community.

“I encourage everyone to contribute to the survey and play a part in shaping the initiatives that will help keep you and your community well.”

The online survey is available at the Mental Health Commission’s website.

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