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Psychosocial Support

Overview

Psychosocial supports are designed to help individuals living with mental health conditions or psychosocial disabilities build independence, manage daily tasks, and engage in their communities. These supports focus on improving overall well-being through practical assistance, skill development, and social connections.

What Does Psychosocial Support Involve?

Psychosocial supports can vary based on individual needs but often include:

Support with cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and personal care

Help to engage in social activities, hobbies, and volunteering

Learning strategies to manage mental health, relationships, and employment

Connecting with others who have lived experience of mental health challenges

Helping individuals navigate periods of distress and plan for future needs

Who Provides Psychosocial Support?

Across Australia, psychosocial supports are provided by various services, including:

  • Community mental health organisations: Local programs that offer practical and emotional support
  • Peer support networks: Groups run by individuals with lived experience of mental health conditions
  • Government-funded programs: Such as the National Psychosocial Support (NPS) program, which offers non-NDIS support for people with severe mental health challenges
  • NDIS providers: For those who qualify for NDIS funding, tailored psychosocial supports can be included in a participant’s plan

Accessing Psychosocial Support

If you or someone you know needs psychosocial support, there are several ways to access help:

Many local community organisations offer free or low-cost psychosocial support programs, including 1-on-1 peer support, support groups, therapeutic interventions like art therapy, workshops and support to access housing, employment, or social activities. These services can often be accessed through community health centres, local Not-for-Profits, and mental health organisations.

Learn more about Mental Health Community Support Services near you

If you’re living with a disability that arises from your mental health conditions (a psychosocial disability), you may be eligible to receive funding for psychosocial disability support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). 

Psychosocial supports are not always provided under the NDIS, leaving many Australians who need them without access. Advocacy efforts, such as those by the Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia (MIFA), push for stronger investment in psychosocial support programs that bridge this gap, reduce hospitalisations, and empower people to lead fulfilling lives.

The Commonwealth Psychosocial Support Program is a government initiative supporting people with severe mental health conditions with short-term help with their day-to-day living.

The program supports people in connecting with community services and strengthening their social, educational, and vocational skills.

People who receive similar support via the NDIS or a state or territory-funded service are not eligible for this program.

To find out more, contact your local Primary Health Network.

Many advocacy organisations provide resources and peer-led support programs. These groups offer a space where individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges can share experiences, support and encouragement.

Support may include structured peer mentoring, support groups, online forums, information and resources, and advocacy. 

Some organisations also provide workshops and self-advocacy training to empower individuals to navigate services and improve their well-being. 

Engaging with a peer support network can help reduce isolation, build resilience, and foster a strong sense of connection and community.

The Importance of Advocacy

Despite the vital role of psychosocial support, there remains a significant gap in accessibility for many Australians. 

MIFA and other advocacy groups continue to push for better funding to bridge the gap in unmet needs and policy changes to ensure people with psychosocial disabilities receive the support they need to lead fulfilling lives.

If you’re struggling to find support, reaching out to advocacy organisations may help you navigate available options.

What is Advocacy?

Need Help?

If you’re unsure where to start, talking to your GP or a local mental health service can be a great first step. They can provide referrals and help connect you with the right support for your needs.

For more information on mental health support services, visit our Get Help section.

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