Taking care of our mental health is a vital part of our daily life to enrich and promote a sense of purpose. The NDIS assists participants in providing mental health support and encourages independence.
Here’s everything you need to know about NDIS and the available mental health support it has to offer.
What are the mental health conditions supported by NDIS?
The NDIS may provide support to individuals with a Psychosocial Disability that significantly impacts their life and daily activities. Psychosocial Disability may include:
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
- Mood disorders
- Agoraphobia
Why is seeking NDIS mental health support important?
People with a psychosocial disability may benefit from accessing NDIS mental health support to assist in achieving their plan goals and help deal with difficult situations.
What are the NDIS assessment criteria for mental health conditions?
Individuals facing mental health challenges may be eligible for NDIS support. To apply for NDIS support related to psychosocial disabilities, one must:
- Be over 7 years and under 65 years of age.
- Have a severe and enduring mental health condition resulting in intense functional impairment requiring ongoing support.
- Be living in Australia as a permanent resident, citizen or special category visa holder.
Evidence is required to show the impacts of your psychosocial disability to determine your eligibility for NDIS support. If you require periodic support, you may not be able to meet the eligibility criteria.
What is included in NDIS support for mental health conditions?
There is a range of mental health support offered through NDIS, including:
- Personal care
NDIS mental health professionals may support you to seek supports to assist with personal morning routines and hygiene, as well as other necessary tasks such as appointments. - Household
NDIS service providers offer help with household tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning, banking and shopping. Through this, participants can enjoy a comfortable living environment with nutritious meals and a tidy home. - Travel and transport
NDIS providers offer transportation assistance for appointments, shopping and outings. Your NDIS plan manager may be able to help you find linkages to providers who can support you. - Community participation
The NDIS encourages participants to attend social gatherings, be involved in recreational activities with peers or partake in community events. - Life skills development
NDIS plan managers can assist you in understanding your plan and identifying available funding to access providers who can support you in maintaining a tidy living space, improving personal hygiene, enhancing social interactions and developing organisational skills.
What are the tips for accessing NDIS psychosocial support?
Before accessing support, it’s important to gather the necessary evidence and documentation for your NDIS application. Managing the challenges that come with mental illnesses can be a rollercoaster ride, with both good and bad days. Sometimes, participants may need to maintain a diary documenting their daily struggles. Once NDIS approval is granted, you can work with your NDIS plan manager and local area coordinator, who can provide guidance and insight into your plan.
A general practitioner (GP) or mental health support team can help supply evidence around the impacts of your psychosocial disability that you can give to the NDIA for their consideration. It will help give perspective on your functional ability and the support that will help enhance your life.
Overall, the NDIS offers a variety of support for people living with mental illnesses. Support can include accommodation assistance, treatment, support for daily living and life skill development. You can only be eligible for NDIS mental health support if you have a permanent and severe disability that is impacting your health. In such a situation, seek help and, if possible, access NDIS support to assist in reaching your personal goals and living an independent, fulfilled life.
