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Mind Australia will be able to help hundreds more Victorians improve their mental health and wellbeing thanks to a funding commitment announced by the Victorian government.

The Victorian government has extended funding for the Early Intervention Psychological Response (EIPSR) program for a further two years. The EIPSR program provides short-to-medium term psychosocial support for people who are ineligible for, or have not yet accessed, the NDIS.

It delivers one-on-one and group-based support so that people experiencing mental health concerns can manage their wellbeing, engage with their community and develop practical life and social skills. Mind Australia is one of 10 organisations delivering the service to communities across Victoria.

Mind Australia CEO Gill Callister said psychosocial support services like EIPSR enable people to live a life of purpose on their terms.

“Mind welcomes the Victorian government’s decision to extend EIPSR funding, which will have a positive impact on the lives of hundreds of Victorians with mental health and wellbeing challenges,” Ms Callister said.

“This funding extension ensures we can continue bringing help, hope and purpose to the lives of people with mental health and wellbeing challenges as they seek to achieve their recovery goals.”

Sham, a former Mind EIPSR client in Melbourne’s north-west, said the program has helped get his life back on track.

“Mind has created so many opportunities for me to get a better life. I had a big breakdown five years ago, so it was hard to get that rhythm of getting outside or being in the community – even driving was a challenge,” he said.

“I still struggle but the strategies I have been given for daily life and routine have helped me achieve more; I am gardening, I do my own shopping, I cook at home and now I am aiming to get a part-time job.”

An evaluation conducted with Mind EIPSR clients upon exiting the program found that:

more than 90 per cent of clients felt they made progress towards achieving their goals
more than 85 per cent of clients said their life had improved since
95 per cent of clients said they would recommend EIPSR to others.
For more information about EIPSR call 1300 375 330 or visit the Mind Australia website.

Psychosocial supports – like the kind provided by Mind Australia – help people with mental health and wellbeing issues manage daily activities, rebuild and maintain connections, engage with education and employment, and participate fully in the community. These are supports which help people take positive steps in their recovery journey.

If this article raises concerns for you, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders can also call 13 YARN (13 92 76) a 24/7 national crisis support telephone service staffed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.