Calls for calm. Schizophrenia is not a cause but a condition that demands greater support without stigma and blame

The national organisation for Australians affected by complex mental health, SANE, is extremely concerned about the conjecture that has been circulating in the wake of the horrifying event that claimed lives at Bondi Junction on Saturday. For those with long-term or complex mental health conditions, it is not only inaccurate but also upsetting and harmful to place all the blame on the mental health status of the offender. Schizophrenia sufferers are the most stigmatised group in the media, and even though there is ample proof that members of this community are far more likely to become victims of violent crimes, the media frequently automatically (and mistakenly) places the blame on them. The CEO of SANE, Rachel Green, is advocating for the adoption of due process and general composure.

“Persistent, negative portrayal of mental illness reinforces shame and reduces the likelihood that someone will seek help. It contributes to social isolation, poorer health outcomes and increased suicide risk.”

“We’ve been inundated today with calls and emails from members of our community who are horrified to think they’re seen in the same light as the person who has committed this terrible crime.”

“We’ve also had numerous complaints about distressing or stigmatising media coverage made to our Stigmawatch program.”

“The reality is, people living with complex mental health conditions are much more likely to be victims of violent crime, not the perpetrators.”

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“Whilst we don’t know his motive, what is clear is that this person has experienced long term mental health challenges and has not had appropriate access to treatment or support.”

“Effective early intervention and ongoing treatment and psychosocial support can prevent significant deterioration and enable people with complex mental ill health to live healthy, productive and meaningful lives.”

“There is an enormous need for increased investment and better coordination of mental health services at a state and federal level. Our current mental health system is filled with gaps and people have and continue to fall through and sometimes with devastating consequences”.

“We’re calling on governments to take action to ensure this situation doesn’t happen again.”

As the investigation into the Bondi Junction incident continues, we encourage all Australians to reduce unhelpful speculation about motive and learn a little more about what it means to live with a complex mental health condition.

We’d like extend our sincere sympathies to all those impacted by this dreadful situation and encourage anyone needing help to connect with one of the following services –

  • SANE free support services for individuals with complex mental health needs and their friends and family can be accessed from www.sane.org/get-support or via the SANE Supportline 1800 187 263.

    • For crisis situations, please call

      • Lifeline 13 11 14

      • KidsHelpline – 1800 55 1800

      • 13 Yarn – 13 92 76

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