6 minute read

Judy says EIPSR group activities have been a gamechanger for getting out of the house and improving her mental health.

The 21-year-old from Melbourne’s north receives support from Mind via the Early Intervention Psychological Response (EIPSR) program – a short-to-medium term psychosocial support for people who are ineligible for, or have not yet accessed, the NDIS.

The program delivers one-on-one and group-based support so that people experiencing mental health challenges can manage their wellbeing, engage with their community and develop practical life and social skills.

Judy, who experiences anxiety, depression and symptoms of post-traumatic stress, says participating in activities like walking and photography groups through EIPSR has been life-changing.

“The group activities have helped me a lot. They helped me go outside and relieve the pressure I was feeling,” she said.

“I’ve also been able to learn new skills and get to know other people and make some friends. I think going outside has really helped me with my mental health, and I’d like to thank the Mind staff for helping me on my journey.”

The EIPSR’s photography group is Judy’s favourite. For the third year in a row, she is preparing to showcase her photography as part of the annual Mind Melbourne Metro EIPSR Art Exhibition.

This year’s exhibition theme is Mindful Moments. It features works from EIPSR service users who employ a range of creative mediums, including photography, drawing, animation, painting and collage to express themselves and their world.

Judy says participating in the exhibition and displaying her work for others to see gave her confidence.

“I did the exhibition last year and I was really proud of myself. I feel like it’s quite a comforting experience, and I love getting compliments too,” she said.

The Mind Melbourne Metro EIPSR Art Exhibition will be held at Kindred Cameras Gallery in Docklands on Wednesday 5 June between 12–2 pm.

For more information about Mind support services near you call 1300 286 463 or visit the Mind Australia website.

Psychosocial supports – like the kind provided by Mind Australia – help people with mental health challenges 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 Straits 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. 
If you would like more information, please contact us.

1300 286 463 
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