People with a disability report high or very high levels of psychological distress (29%) compared to those without a disability (17%), while 54% of people with a learning disability have a mental health problem.
But a study published by ‘The Conversation‘ found that 20% of poor mental health reported by young people with a disability could be alleviated by helping those who want to work into jobs. We also know it takes pressure off the health and mental health system. If all people with a disability currently looking for employment found part time work, it would save approximately $62.5 million per year in health-care services (including mental health services) and mental health prescriptions.
Build a Better Future’s Capacity Building and Inclusion Hub has well-structured and effective programs, supports, and activity that help people with a disability to engage in regular activities like employment, education, and life-skills training.
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Community engagement
With social isolation one of the major contributors to poor mental health, the Capacity Building and Inclusion Hub seeks to find programs and spaces where people with a disability and the community can connect.
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Mental health programs
Through a combination of activities that reduce social isolation and targeted programs that help people with disability to manage stress, the hub aims to decrease participant anxiety and improve wellbeing.
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Physical health programs
A key contributor to good physical and mental health is engagement in activities that exercise the body and mind. The Hub’s programs include engagement in sport, physical activity, and recreational pursuits.