Australia’s first national e-mental health online portal has been launched today by the Federal Minister for Mental Health, the Hon Mark Butler MP.
Called mindhealthconnect, this government portal will enable instant access to a variety of clinically-endorsed mental health information, support and therapies.
As pioneers in the field of eHealth, Black Dog Institute researchers played a key advisory role in the development of mindhealthconnect.
“We know that more and more people are turning to the internet to seek help, treatment and support for mental health problems” says A/Prof Judy Proudfoot, Black Dog Director of eHealth and Chief Investigator of the myCompass eHealth program.
“While online mental health services have a significant role to play, the challenge is making sure that the information they provide is both safe and effective.”
“mindhealthconnect will not only facilitate access to quality online programs, information and communities, it will be a simple and confidential gateway for people who may not seek face-to-face help for mental health problems."
Black Dog Executive Director, Professor Helen Christensen, commends the Federal Government for their proactive approach to mental health.
“As a key objective of the Australian e-mental health strategy, the implementation of mindhealthconnect portal is an enormously positive step towards improving the mental health of Australians.”
“Providing Australians with easy access to the best cutting-edge online programs will encourage individuals to feel more in control of their thoughts and behaviours, reducing the burden on our mental health services and, ultimately, saving lives.”
Go to www.mindhealthconnect.org.au for more information on the portal.
The Black Dog Institute will be launching a unique online self-help tool called ‘myCompass’ on the mindhealthconnect portal on 23rd July 2012.
Interviews are available with both Prof Helen Christensen and A/Prof Judy Proudfoot. Contact Gayle McNaught on 0401 625 905 or email g.mcnaught@blackdog.org.au
Australian and New Zealand Mental Health Association
Web: https://dev3.anzmh.asn.au
Email: education@anzmh.asn.au
