Calling for compassion, context and better mental healthcare

ASoP contributed to today's front page article of The Daily Telegraph examining the tragic alleged murder of Sydney grandfather Quang My Pham.

Our thoughts remain with Mr Pham's family and loved ones who have suffered an enormous loss.

In speaking with The Daily Telegraph, ASoP CEO Dr Pramudie Gunaratne emphasised the importance of looking beyond the events of a single day and asking whether there were missed opportunities for treatment and support before the tragedy occurred.

“Mr Pham and his loved ones have paid an unimaginable price. The real question is not what happened on one day, but what happened in the months and years beforehand. Every major tragedy should prompt us to ask whether there were missed opportunities to provide treatment, support and care before a crisis became a catastrophe.”

“Tragedies like this rarely emerge from a single moment. They are often the end point of a long chain of missed opportunities for treatment, support and intervention.”

Stories involving mental illness require careful, compassionate reporting. It is essential that we never lose sight of victims and their families, while also avoiding stigma towards the overwhelming majority of people living with mental illness who are never violent.

ASoP believes that thoughtful reporting can help shift the conversation from blame towards learning — asking how our mental health system can better identify people in need, provide timely care and prevent future tragedies wherever possible.