Waitematā DHB Malaga a le Pasifika

Public Service, Mental Health, Pasifika

Today

Open today 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Description

Malaga a le Pasifika is a Pacific Mental Health Cultural Liaison Service which provides care support for consumers and their families and works alongside WDHB Clinical Mental Health Services. It is a part of Takanga A Fohe Service which encompasses Isa Lei (Clinical), Tupu (Alcohol and Drug & Gambling) and Avatea (Child and Young Adult support service). We have culture advisors that are competent in Pacific languages and cultural aspects to aid the understanding of the clinical side of mental health for our consumers.

Malaga a le Pasifika staff will complete cultural assessments and offer advice for referral for Pacific clients to:
- Pacific mental health services
- Mainstream mental health services
- Primary Health Organisations (GPs)
- own community.

What is Mental Illness?

Mental illness is a clinically significant behaviour or psychological (to do with the mind) disorder that is associated with distress or disability. It is not just the way someone responds to a particular event nor is it limited to the way a person interacts with society.

A mental illness can continuously or intermittently (occasionally) affect our capacity for speech, language, mood, affect, thoughts, perceptions, insight, judgement, cognition (understanding) and volition (ability to make choices). It can limit our ability to function as society would normally expect of us and can put us and others at risk.

Mental illness is therefore, a broad term that covers problems ranging from minor to severe disorders.

What does a Psychiatrist do?

A ‘psychiatrist’ is a doctor who, after basic medical qualifications, receives further training and develops the expertise to become a ‘specialist’ in identifying symptoms of, and diagnosing and treating, mental illnesses. You may have been referred to a psychiatrist if your doctor feels you need specialist help.

What does a Psychologist do?

A psychologist investigates, assesses and works with people who have problems affecting their behaviour, thoughts and emotions, and helps them to develop their potential.

For more information or help please contact our Duty Line (09) 822 8777 or Crisis Line (09) 822 8501

Referral Expectations

Referral or entry criteria for Malaga:

Pacific consumer lives within the WDHB catchment area (West Auckland, North Shore, Rodney District)
Malaga may also be accessed by contacting the location Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) who will arrange a joint appointment for the consumer and their families, in conjunction with Malaga staff
all ages accepted.