Navigating Mental Health Support in Hobart From Crisis Care to Community Support

Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania, offers a comprehensive range of mental health services to support its diverse population. From youth-focused care to specialized adult services, this guide will help you navigate the mental health landscape in Hobart, ensuring residents can access the right support when needed.

Major Mental Health Services in Hobart

Community Mental Health Services

Hobart offers several community-based mental health services:

Community Mental Health Services

Part of the Adult Mental Health Service
Provides support in community settings

Anglicare Tasmania

Services: Government-funded mental health recovery and counselling
Offerings: NDIS-funded counselling, social work, mental health recovery support, and assistance following suicide attempts

Inpatient and Crisis Services

For those requiring more intensive care:

Royal Hobart Hospital Mental Health Inpatient Unit

Provides inpatient services for severe mental health conditions

Access Mental Health Helpline

24/7 free call service: 1800 332 388
Offers support and referrals to mental health services in Tasmania, including Hobart

Emergency Services

In case of a mental health emergency:

Call 000 for immediate assistance
Visit the Emergency Department at the Royal Hobart Hospital

Private Mental Health Providers in Hobart

Hobart has a network of private mental health professionals:

Psychologists: Providing therapy for various mental health issues
Psychiatrists: Offering medical treatment and therapy
Psychotherapists: Specialized in long-term therapeutic approaches

Specialized Mental Health Services

Youth Mental Health Services:

headspace Hobart (as mentioned above)
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)

Perinatal Mental Health Services:

Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Service (PIMHS) at the Royal Hobart Hospital

Older Adult Mental Health Services:

Older Persons Mental Health Service

Accessing Mental Health Services in Hobart

General Practitioners (GPs)
GPs in Hobart can provide:

Initial mental health assessments
Mental Health Treatment Plans for Medicare-subsidized sessions
Referrals to specialized services

Mental Health Care Plans:
Allow access to up to 20 Medicare-subsidized sessions per calendar year

Telehealth Services:
Many Hobart-based mental health professionals offer telehealth options for remote consultations

Support Groups and Community Initiatives

Mental Health Council of Tasmania: Provides information and resources on mental health in Hobart and across Tasmania
GROW Tasmania: Offers peer support groups for mental health recovery
Flourish Mental Health Action in Our Hands Inc: A consumer-run organization providing advocacy and support

Research and Innovation

Hobart contributes to mental health research through institutions such as:

Menzies Institute for Medical Research at the University of Tasmania
Centre for Rural Health at the University of Tasmania

Hobart offers a comprehensive range of mental health services, from specialized clinics to community-based care and support groups. The city’s commitment to mental health is evident in its diverse array of services catering to different age groups and specific mental health needs.

While challenges such as wait times and service capacity remain, Hobart continues to expand and improve its mental health support network. The combination of public and private services, community initiatives, and research efforts ensures that Hobart residents have access to diverse mental health resources.

For Hobart residents seeking mental health support, it’s important to reach out through any of the channels mentioned above. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Hobart’s mental health services are here to support you on your journey to wellbeing, reflecting the city’s commitment to community health and its unique Tasmanian character.