TEAMhealth: Support for the journey - Individualised Recovery

Helen Egan, CEO, TeamHEALTH, said that this week is about engaging with the  community to create a discussion about living with Schizophrenia, so that we can work together to reduce the stigma, confusion and discrimination associated with this mental illness.

“Schizophrenia does not define an individual.  Seeking help leads to improved outcomes and can prevent future problems.

 “It is important for all of us to acknowledge that stigma, discrimination and prejudice add to the burden of individuals in our community living with Schizophrenia, and this discourages people from seeking help.”

 “The majority of people develop schizophrenia between the ages of 15 and 30 – such an important time in a person’s life; they are just starting out.”

 “It is important for individuals to feel supported and connected to their family, friends and community so that they can continue to lead a meaningful  life which they value.”

 “TeamHEALTH believe that both mental health support in the community and clinical care are important in any person’s recovery journey.

 “We provide support to individuals on and through their recovery journey; recognising that each recovery  is unique to the individual.”

 Factors that contribute to recovery include access to good clinical treatment, a safe home, strong relationships, jobs or volunteering and financial security.

 “We provide individuals with the opportunity to reconnect with their community, within a safe and secure environment if needed and connect them with much needed services; supporting them through all facets of their recovery.”

TeamHEALTH will join with other local service providers on Friday 20 May at Raintree Park, Darwin City to support the Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia (NT)                                             in shining a light on Schizophrenia.

This will be a free event and opportunity for individuals to come along and find out more about TeamHEALTH and other community service providers that support individuals experiencing mental illness or concerns and those caring for these individuals.

TeamHEALTH is a not for profit organisation.

Services are focused on mental health support, recovery and rehabilitation, prevention and education, and are delivered across Darwin, Palmerston and the regional and remote communities of the Top End.

These programs are provided to individuals of all ages including children, families, carers, youth and the aged; from various cultures and backgrounds.

Support includes:

• Promoting the development and achievement of life goals and skills.
• Educating individuals, groups and organisations about mental illness, mental health concerns and how to provide support to individuals experiencing mental health problems.
• Housing options for people who have the capacity to live independently in the community.
• Specialist 24hr hour, long-term rehabilitation and Sub- Acute Care.
• A Drop-in and Day Program, Day to Day Living (D2DL).
• A community based Aged Care program, Home Care Packages (HCP).