Fostering digital transformation of mental health care to maximise access and impact
Heidi Sturk1 1Queensland University Of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Abstract
Aims: The demand for mental health support is increasing, yet many individuals face difficulties accessing care. Government-funded digital mental health services are becoming a key component of mental health service delivery and provide accessible low-cost options for information, prevention, assessment, diagnosis, counselling, and treatment. These services can complement face-to-face therapies, free up care providers to assist those with more complex needs, provide treatment for those on waiting lists, and flexibly respond to increased demand.
Method: Over the past nine years the eMHPrac consortium (Queensland University of Technology, Black Dog Institute, Menzies School of Health Research and the University Centre for Rural Health) has provided education and support to allied health practitioners via a range of promotional and training modalities. eMHPrac also monitors registrations to online programs and webchat services.
Results: eMHPrac now has strong brand recognition as a respected provider of expert and impartial advice about digital mental health. Training evaluations show increases in knowledge, confidence and skill acquisition. Registration numbers to online programs and webchat continue to rise.
Conclusion: Continued investment in training and resource development is essential to address gaps in digital literacy and digital mental health knowledge. The referral and utilisations of digital services by allied health practitioners play a pivotal role in ensuring that these options make a meaningful contribution to accessibility and impact for all Australians. In this presentation, we will outline some key insights gained from training the allied health workforce in leveraging technology for mental health care, including positive outcomes and specific challenges.
Biography
Heidi Sturk is the Director of eMHPrac (e-Mental Health in Practice) at Queensland University of Technology. Heidi oversees the development, delivery and evaluation of training and support on digital mental health to health practitioners and service providers nationwide. She holds a Master of Organisational Psychology and has worked in applied mental health research and workforce training for the last 28 years. Heidi is a committee member of the Australian Government’s Digital Mental Health Advisory Group for the National Safety and Quality Digital Mental Health Standards.