30% Rise in Young Patients at Alma St

FREMANTLE Hospital’s Alma Street Centre has seen a 30 per cent increase in the number of youth being assessed in the past 12 months.

Between June, 2014, and June, 2015, 1290 young people aged 18 to 25 were looked at – 30 per cent more than the previous year.

According to Fremantle Hospital and Health Service executive director David Blythe, young people presented with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, psychosis and psychiatric problems associated with drug and alcohol use.

He said giving youth early access to mental health services catering to their age could make a big difference.

“Anyone experiencing a mental health issue is encouraged to seek help and support as it’s needed and continue to seek assistance until their goals are achieved,” he said.

“The Fremantle Hospital Mental Health Service continues to meet the evolving needs of our clients through the Assessment and Treatment Team (ATT) service.

“The ATT provides emergency mental health services both in the community and for persons presenting for triage at Fremantle Hospital Mental health service between 9am and 10pm seven days a week.”

Call 9431 3555 to contact the ATT.

For the Mental Health Emergency Response Line, which is available 24 hours a day, call 1300 555 788.