$2.3 million for mental health support services in Yuendumu

Indigenous Australians living with mental illness in Yuendumu in the Northern Territory will have greater access to mental health support, with $2.3 million in Australian Government funding over the next three years.

Warlpiri Youth Development Aboriginal Corporation (Mt Theo) will receive funding as part of the Government’s $284 million commitment to the Personal Helpers and Mentors (PHaMs) program from 2006-2011.

The PHaMs program in Yuendumu was designed in consultation with the community and service providers in Central Australia and has been tailored to better serve Indigenous Australians living with mental illness in remote communities.

Mental illness can have a devastating effect on people’s lives leaving them feeling isolated, vulnerable and at risk of drug and alcohol misuse.

The program targets those most in need – people who cannot manage their daily activities or live independently because they have a severe mental illness.

Personal helpers and mentors work one-on-one with participants helping them achieve their goals – for example, managing every day tasks.

By building confidence and increasing connections within the community, personal helpers and mentors can help overcome crippling social isolation.

PHaMs improves the lives of people with mental illness by building a stronger community.

This funding will make a real difference to the lives of Indigenous Australians with mental illness in Yuendumu.