Medicines Australia, MTAA and AusBiotech support enhanced mental health services

Australia’s suicide rate may increase by 25 per cent, and it is likely that about 30 per cent of those will be among young people, as the longer-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is experienced across the community.

Modelling from the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre predicts an additional 750 to 1,500 suicides in addition to the 3,000 lives that are lost to suicide already every year in Australia.

In response to this mental health need, the Federal Government made an initial commitment of $74 million to boost mental health services. In collaboration with the National Mental Health Commission, leading mental health organisations, experts and influencers worked together to develop the national campaign #InThisTogether.

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Medicines Australia CEO Elizabeth de Somer said “Medicines Australia welcomes the Federal Government’s $74M boost to mental health services. This, and the launch of the #InThisTogether national online campaign will provide all Australians with connections to essential mental health services and wellbeing information. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us all to radically change our lives, and compounded with heightened levels of anxiety and uncertainty, it is more important than ever that we support each other emotionally and with sensitivity and to stay connected to our communities, families and workplaces.”

Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) CEO Ian Burgess said “We congratulate the Morrison Government for their efforts in helping to flatten the curve so far, but also recognise that the mental health impacts of this crisis will extend out far beyond the physical ones, and it is incumbent on industry to continue to show leadership in our advocacy and our workplaces.”

Lorraine Chiroiu CEO of AusBiotech said “COVID-19 has disrupted all of our assumptions, norms and expectations. It’s tough, and so AusBiotech welcomes the Government’s broad support for Australia’s health – mental and physical. While we are natural collaborators in our work, ensuring the deeper connections to support each other is key, and I encourage the life sciences community to reach out and seek support as we move through this together.”

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