With an unprecedented demand for mental health care across the country, St John of God Health Care has opened a specialised psychological trauma recovery unit for emergency services workers and defence force personnel in Victoria.
St John of God Health Care manages the largest community-based mental health service among Catholic hospital groups in Australia.
The new Emergency Services and Defence Trauma Recovery Unit opened on Monday at St John of God Langmore Centre, Berwick, in outer Melbourne. The unit offers secure, holistic care with tailored inpatient services and day programs provided by trauma-focused clinicians.
St John of God Health Care South East Melbourne Hospitals chief executive Lisa Norman says it is important for emergency services workers and defence personnel to know they are not alone.
“It’s important for people to know that there are treatments and support available to help them manage their symptoms and regain control of their lives,” Ms Norman said.
“The most challenging step is recognising there is a problem and finding access to the right programs.
“Our goal is to instil hope, guiding patients and their families towards a brighter future.”
The new unit has been developed in response to community need and is designed to provide targeted care to people whose mental health can be directly impacted by the work they do.
Emergency services and defence force personnel face unique challenges, with one in seven at risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Associated conditions such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, anger, drug and alcohol reliance, relationship and sleep issues are also common.
A combination of treatments and services are tailored for clients, offering a blend of allied and clinical support with access to the facilities and support needed for recovery.
Programs include a mix of inpatient and day patient services, including individual and group therapy, medication, exercise, art and music therapy, pain management and neuro-stimulation.
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St John of God Langmore Centre unveils new trauma service for frontline heroes in Victoria (St John of God Health Care)
