Concerned about someone
If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s mood or behaviours help is available. People in South Canterbury have good access to a range of support services some of which are listed below.
For crisis or emergency help:
- TACT (Triage, Assessment and Crisis Team) 0800 277 997
For non-emergency help:
- Mental Health and Addiction Services 0800 277 997
- Arowhenua Whānau Services 03 615 5180
- General Practitioners (GP)
- Brief Intervention (counselling/problem-solving skills) GP referral
- Adventure Development (Youth Service) 03 684 5870
- Family Works (support, advice and counselling) 03 688 5029
- Additional support agencies are listed on page 4 of the white pages and counselling services are listed in the yellow pages of the Timaru/Oamaru phone book
Support for families:
- FAMHS (Family Mental Health Support) 03 684 4523 or email office@famhs.nz
Family involvement
Families are considered a vital part of a mental health service user's recovery journey. They are a source of support and encouragement to their loved one, and quite often are able to see when something is wrong before the person is aware they are becoming unwell.
We endeavour to include and consult with families during the various stages in their loved one's treatment. This may include family and discharge meetings, and discussion with mental health staff on an individual basis. family members are encouraged to feel they can contact staff to discuss any issues or concerns they may have. They can also help us with useful and relevant information about their loved one's history during episodes of chronic illness.
Remember support is available for families of mental health service users from Supporting Families Aoraki.