Dozens saved by outreach program

A NEW health initiative for people affected by suicide is saving lives in the Geelong region.

Barwon Health is one of five Victorian hospitals to run the HOPE initiative.

Since the program was rolled out in December, Geelong has had 77 referrals and currently works with 19 clients.

Barwon Health’s clinical director of mental health, drugs and alcohol services, Steve Moylan, said patients were referred to the program through the Mental Health Access Team.

“The HOPE initiative aims to provide holistic support to people post-suicide attempt or with thoughts of suicide, with the aim of supporting the person, their careers and families,” Mr Moylan said.

He said the HOPE program is an adjunct to existing clinical services provided by the mental health, drugs and alcohol program.

“It provides up to three months of outreach support for people who do not require follow-up by specialist mental health services and who have been referred back to their existing health practitioner,” Mr Moylan said.

The program, like all specialist mental health services programs, is aimed at people with serious mental illness or a mental disorder with associated significant levels of disturbance and psychosocial disability.

Mr Moylan said a variety of specialised services are available across the age range, from children to those over 65.

“There is an emphasis on providing early intervention to young people and developing partnerships with other organisations to utilise a full range of services,” Mr Moylan said.

“All these services provide risk assessment and management to all consumers presenting to the service, including those at risk of suicide.”