Young people across the Latrobe Valley struggling with their mental health can now access a ground-breaking new service that provides targeted, personalised online therapy and peer support, when and where they need it thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

A $6 million investment, the MOST (Moderated Online Social Therapy) service was designed by Orygen to blend digital and face-to-face care for young people, providing instant access to online support. While MOST does not replace crucial face-to-face care, it provides complementary treatment and recovery support in an online environment.

Yesterday, Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health, Steve Dimopoulos visited the Latrobe Regional Hospital Community Mental Health Facility to launch the MOST service and meet clinicians and new staff hired under the Workforce Strengthening Project.

Funding has allowed for expanded mental health services at Latrobe Regional Hospital including a bolstered workforce, funded through the government’s Bushfire Recovery Package.

The Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System outlined the importance of future digital health technologies for young people, including highlighting Orygen’s MOST platform.

Quotes attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health, Steve Dimopoulos

 “The Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we deliver mental health care. This new program means young people can get the long-term care they need to stay happy, healthy and well.”

“We’re doing everything we can to ensure young Victorians struggling with their mental health have the support they need now and close to home.”

Quote attributable to the Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“We are absolutely determined to proactively support communities, families and the many clients, patients and consumers of mental health services to access better care and treatment, closer to home.”

We also need to continue connecting Gippslanders to the services and support that they need. Online resources like these will also play a really important role in improving outcomes and tackling the stigma that persists around mental illness.”