On 1 July 2022, CCQ launched its Head to Health information and referral phone service (Head to Health). Head to Health is a national initiative funded by the Department of Health and Aged Care to improve awareness and access to mental health services.
The Head to Health model is based on a ‘no wrong door’ approach and provides an information and referral pathway for people in the Central Queensland, Wide Bay and Sunshine Coast community in need of mental health support.
Bess Jackson, Acting Manager Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs at CCQ said, “Anyone can contact the Head to Health information and referral service. This includes self-referrals from patients as well as GPs, psychiatrists, and other health professionals who may use the Head to Health phone service to find care options for their patients”.
“Alternatively, friends, family members or work colleagues can phone the Head to Health phone number on 1800 595 212 on behalf of another person who may require access to mental health services and supports“, she said.
Through the national Head to Health phone number (1800 595 212), callers from anywhere in Australia are linked to their nearest Head to Health service for mental health assessment and/or local referral information. The service provides a welcoming and accessible entry point for people requiring mental health support and aims to assist people to receive the right support, in the right place, at the right time for both their immediate needs and in establishing connections for ongoing support.
A member of the Head to Health team will work with those referred to the service to understand their needs and ensure they are connected to or provided information about the most suitable support options available in their region.
Depending on the assistance required, support options provided may include referral to a GP or other health service, online support options, existing mental health support services or other community supports.
The launch of the Head to Health information and referral phone service builds on CCQs commitment to continue to deliver mental health services and provide access to appropriate services to those most in need in our region.
Further information about the Head to Health information and referral phone service can be found on the CCQ website: https://c2coast.org.au/mental-health/ and the national Head to Health website: https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/.