There is a lot already underway in January and I look forward to continuing to work with you all this year to progress mental health, suicide prevention and alcohol and other drugs reform.
Mental health in natural disasters
Over the last month, we've seen various parts of Queensland affected by extreme weather, rainfall and flooding. My thoughts go out to all affected.
While the physical impacts are easy to see, natural disasters can also take a toll on mental health and it's normal and okay to feel overwhelmed, anxious or uncertain. If you need support during this time, I've included a link to a list of support services on our website.
Trauma strategy
The Commission is working to develop a whole-of-government trauma strategy for Queensland to prevent and reduce the impact of trauma and shape a more trauma-informed Queensland.
Your voice is critical to crafting a strategy that reflects our diverse communities and ensures that state government agencies consistently work towards preventing, recognising and responding to trauma and experiences of adversity.
To ensure no voice goes unheard, we will be opening our doors for public consultations in the coming months and holding a series of state-wide consultations, workshops, and forums, and also inviting written submissions to gather your valuable insights and experiences.
More details will be shared soon, including how you can contribute, but if you would like to find out more in the meantime, please contact Giovanna Franze at shiftingminds@qmhc.qld.gov.au.
Harm reduction
Lastly, I would like to acknowledge the events in Victoria over the past month, with suspected overdoses occurring at two festivals due to a combination of weather conditions and high dose MDMA.
The value of drug checking (also known as pill testing) services is well evidenced and importantly provides an opportunity for people who have already purchased and intend to use a drug to speak with health professionals, get tailored information about the potential risks, and information about how to keep themselves safer.
I again commend the Queensland Government for its commitment to the imminent introduction of both fixed and mobile site drug checking services and we are very much looking forward to the implementation of drug checking in Queensland this year.
Drug checking services are part of the suite of health responses designed to reduce alcohol and other drug related harms and increase safety for Queenslanders.
As the conversation around drug checking continues nationally, it's important to continue to work together to implement what works for the community. This includes in partnership with people with lived and living experience to ensure options and responses meet their needs and expectations.
