With an expansive background in mental health practice, Kim has worked as a psychologist in family therapy, youth mental health, and addiction services, across the community, government and the private sector. Kim brings this wealth of experience and industry knowledge to the education programs she oversees.
Mental health in our time
In 2018 the Australian Government established a comprehensive and independent inquiry into the state of mental health. The Royal Commission into Mental Health held public hearings, workshops, and consultations across Australia, and received more than 10,000 submissions from individuals, organizations, and government bodies. The report featured some sobering statistics.
‘One in five Australians will experience a mental illness in any given year, and just almost 50 per cent of adults will be affected by mental illness at some point in their lives.’
The final report makes 143 recommendations and provides a much-needed overall shift in the way we think and talk about mental health. They emphasise the nature of mental health as a societal issue and the importance of a holistic, collaborative, and strength-based approach to mental health care and education.
A pivotal point of discussion is the need for an improvement in terms of a wrap-around care model. This model places individuals at the centre, with integrated services surrounding them. It also presents a philosophical change in how mental health care is managed, with a focus on supporting and elevating the voice of those experiencing mental health concerns and a drive to improve mental health literacy in the broader community.
‘Online education is social justice in a nutshell because it opens up those opportunities for students and then provides a pathway for them to contribute their life experience professionally.’
The growing demand for mental health workers
As a priority area, an increase in student uptake must be maintained to support the growing demand for mental health workers in Australia. ‘We forecast around 24 per cent of growth in the mental health sector in the next five to 10 years.’
Along with the surge in demand, there is also increasing awareness in the community regarding the importance of prioritising mental health and wellbeing. It’s an exciting time to be studying an applied mental health course and for the future of this industry. As a result of the Commission, there’s been a realisation that we need to do things differently and our students are collectively helping to change the narrative around mental health. We need to change the system and to change it we need more empathetic and passionate voices to join forces with changemakers like Kim.
If you feel that your mental health may need attention, we are here to help at every stage. Monash students can enjoy dedicated support 7 days a week. Enquire now and one of our consultants will get back to you with the help you need.
