NSW Health has deployed new mental health services to help those who’ve been affected by the horrific Bondi terror attack that took place last Sunday.
With a mental health disaster activated, NSW Health has ramped up support systems by assigning mobile clinicians to work on the ground in Bondi and Coogee. These trained clinicians will be wearing high-visibility NSW Health vests, making them easily identifiable to those seeking support.
NSW Health clinicians will be on the ground for anyone who needs help from 8am to 8pm over the coming days and weeks.
“We have initiated a mental health disaster response in the wake of the horrific incident in Bondi, providing mobile mental health clinicians in the local community,” Minister for Health Ryan Park said.
“As we move past the immediate aftermath of this devastating event, I want to encourage anyone who is feeling distressed, anxious, or angry to seek support.
“We have stepped up support with more resources for our existing mental health care services, to ensure help is freely available to anyone who wants it.”
Alongside these mobile clinicians, NSW Health has also ramped up staffing for its Mental Health Line, which is available 24/7 on 1800 011 511.
The Transcultural Mental Health Line at 1800 648 911 is also available for those who are from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Existing resources in Bondi’s local area — including the Safe Haven at Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick, Headspace Bondi Junction and NSW Health public hospitals — have also been boosted for those seeking support.
- Safe Haven at Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick is operating under extended hours from Monday, December 15, to Friday, December 19, from 10am to 7.30pm.
- Headspace Bondi Junction — located at 20 Bronte Road, Bondi Junction — operates from 9am to 6pm Mondays to Thursdays, and 9am to 5pm on Fridays.
- NSW Health public hospitals — including Prince of Wales Hospital, St Vincent’s Hospital and Sydney’s Children Hospital — overs 24/7 mental health support.
The state government is also working closely with Jewish House to provide culturally appropriate services, as well as the community and NGO mental health sectors, to ensure that support is accessible for all. This also includes disaster chaplains and Red Cross staff in Coogee who are trained in psychological first aid.
If you need crisis support
Those who are in need of crisis support are urged to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. Children and young people can also access Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or via its online portal.
If you need non-crisis support
For non-crisis support, people can talk to their local GP, another trusted health or mental health professional, or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
Anyone who is feeling distressed by the Bondi attacks is urged to seek mental health services.
“What happened in Bondi has shaken people right across Sydney and New South Wales,” Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said.
“Whether you were there, know someone who was, or are feeling distressed by what you’ve seen online and in the news, it’s ok to not be ok.”
Help is available.
If you’re in distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or chat online. If it’s an emergency, please call 000.
Under 25? You can reach Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 or chat online.
Reach out to Headspace or Beyond Blue for support, or make an appointment with your GP.
Image source: Getty Images.
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