Lismore: Staffing Crisis

Dr. Kylie Cheng, a consultant psychiatrist, argues that Australia's mental health system is in crisis, failing patients, families, and communities due to inadequate resources, funding cuts, and a flawed model of care. She criticizes the over-reliance on short-term, acute-care services, leaving many individuals with chronic mental illness without ongoing support or continuity of care. Cheng highlights the consequences of these failings, including increased hospital readmissions, homelessness, and involvement with the criminal justice system. She points to the pressure on emergency departments, which are often the first point of contact for people in mental health crisis, but are ill-equipped to provide long-term solutions. The article details specific shortcomings, such as the lack of early intervention services, particularly for young people experiencing emerging mental health issues. The limited availability of community-based support services, including rehabilitation programs and supported accommodation, further exacerbates the problem. Families often bear a significant burden in caring for loved ones with mental illness due to the lack of adequate government support. Cheng advocates for a shift towards a more holistic and preventative approach to mental healthcare, with increased investment in early intervention, community-based services, and long-term support. She stresses the need for a collaborative effort involving government, healthcare professionals, and the community to address the systemic issues and improve the lives of those affected by mental illness. find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/04/05/zptf-a05.html