Mental health disabilities affect millions of Australians over their lifetime, and yet many individuals still struggle to receive the support and resources they need to thrive. In the last 12 months, 4.2 million Australians have experienced a mental disorder. How can we advocate for these individuals and ensure everyone has access to the care and support they need to live whole and meaningful lives?
Connecting with a support coordinator can be a powerful first step. Support coordinators are professionals who work to help individuals with disabilities navigate the complex world of healthcare and social services. Our team of support coordinators specialise in psychosocial disability and they are committed to assisting individuals to access the care they need and improve their overall quality of life.
they can assist with finding the right healthcare providers, accessing housing and employment resources, and transportation services. Accessing these resources can be critical for individuals struggling to navigate the world with a mental health disability.
One of our Support Coordinators, Nabs, talked to us about Psychosocial Disability (PSD) and how it can impact an individual’s ability to express themselves, communicate effectively with others, participate in civic work, engage in social activities, access health care and maintain their overall wellbeing.
“Without an immediate ‘visible’ disability, an individual with Psychosocial Disabilities can have their needs overlooked by others, which is why advocacy is so important.”
— NABS, SUPPORT COORDINATOR
When asked about how she advocates for her clients she says, “As a Support Coordinator, I advocate best for my clients by actively listening to their needs and concerns, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in the decision-making process. I provide personalized support and resources, empowering them to make informed choices and navigate the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) system as effectively as I can. Lastly, I foster a collaborative client-centred approach, striving to promote their independence, well-being and quality of life.”
In short, support coordinators can be a game-changer for individuals with mental health disabilities. By connecting with a Support Coordinator, individuals can access the care and support they need to live full and meaningful lives. They can also become powerful advocates for themselves and for others, helping to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive.
Connect with our Support Coordination team today, empowering you to live your best life!
Photo by Neil Thomas on Unsplash