Making Canberra a mentally healthy community
How we care for individuals' mental health, and build our collective wellbeing is important to all of us.
The Mental Health Community Coalition of the ACT (MHCC ACT) is our Territory’s peak body for social and health services, domestic violence shelters, family support, soup kitchens, and more.
We’re for community-managed mental health at a time when half of Canberrans experience mental ill-health during their lives and one-quarter feel lonely or socially isolated. It’s not always easy to ask for help if you’re feeling unwell, alone or judged. It’s even harder if you’re marginalised because of your identity or what resources are available. That’s why it’s vital that community mental health care is easy to find and access when Canberra needs them most.
What we do and why we do it
We advocate for a mental health system that offers people support and belonging within their community.
Advocacy
and Policy Development
With our members we aim to make ACT a more equitable, just, and mentally healthy community. Our strategic focus is on people who experience mental ill-health, perinatal health issues, alcohol tobacco and other drug struggles, are lonely or involved in the justice system.
Workforce Training and Development
We provide the necessary resources for our communities and members to thrive – especially when it comes to mental health. That could be training for practitioners, forums on emerging issues or must-reads for people who deliver services and support.
Supporting
our
Sector
Our 52 members and 192 associate members with lived and living experience are the experts in their own lives, and the people they partner with for care and support. We ensure that information sharing and collaboration brings sustainable outcomes.
Mental
Health Month ACT
We proudly coordinate Mental Health Month on behalf of the ACT to celebrate community-building and our local Wellbeing Heroes. Events and advocacy to foster connection and smash mental health stigma takes place every October.
