A free program called “NewAccess” has launched with the aim of offering free help to those who feel stressed, anxious or are struggling with personal or work challenges.

Beyondblue developed the federally funded program which Centacare North Queensland is now delivering in Mount Isa.

The mental health coaching program pairs clients with professionals over six free sessions to work through their issues without the need for referral from a GP.

NewAccess is an early intervention support program developed over several years with a 70 percent success rate of clients.

The program is designed to remove roadblocks such as cost, remoteness and stigma which can prevent people from reaching out for mental health support.

Beyondblue CEO Georgie Harman said mental health was a crucial issue in rural and remote areas.

“NewAccess is private and convenient, which means it appeals to people who might otherwise be reluctant to reach out for help,” Ms Harman said.

Centacare NQ has delivered NewAccess in the North West with strong local interest though the program is calling out for more men to access it.

Centacare NQ executive director Peter Monaghan said they were delighted to offer the program to Mount Isa, Cloncurry and North West Queensland.

“This is a free resource that allows prople to restore a strong sense of self-worth for a hopeful future,” Mr Monaghan said.

The federal government is funding the service through the Western Queensland Primary Health Network whose CEO Stuart Gordon attended the launch in Mount Isa on Monday.

“This service is going to enhance the efficacy of existing mental health services and provide a new opportunity for clients to become better informed about mental and manage the early risks of the people around them,” Mr Gordon said.

To find out more about NewAccess Mount Isa contact Centacare NQ on 1300 672 273.