A $2.9 MILLION education and training facility for students and professionals involved in mental health was unveiled on Thursday at Wesley Hospital, Kogarah.
Wesley Mission chief executive, Reverend Dr Keith Garner, said the centre would give students the opportunity to see mental health delivery in practice.
The private hospital treats hundreds of people each year for alcohol and drug addiction, depression and anxiety, bipolar and borderline personality dis-order, schizophrenia and psychosis.
During the 2012-13 summer it provided drug and alcohol rehabilitation to 243 people.
Dr Garner described the new medical centre as ‘‘a major step in the journey of better healthcare knowledge and practice’’.
‘‘It puts the whole issue of mental health right on the front foot instead of it being seen as some poor relation,’’ he said.
The centre will also be used by local GPs and government mental health providers.
It was funded by the federal Department of Health with money set aside by the previous federal government.
The hospital’s treatment programs combine medication and therapy with support and help with life skills.
It has 30 beds.
