SSM----Big increase in the number of Australians seeking support services

Some mental health groups have reported a big increase in the number of Australians seeking support services - as the public has its say on whether to legalise same-sex marriage. The increased pressure on services is expected to continue regardless of Wednesday's (15th Nov)outcome of the Same Sex Marriage Postal Survey. The chief executive, ReachOut Australia which provides mental health support for young people Jono Nicholas, says it has seen a 40 per cent increase in demand for services since the postal survey began. Interview with Dr Zhen Zhang who is a psychiatrist based in Sydney, and also holds the position of senior forensic psychiatrist with the NSW Wide Court Liaison Services, from his outpatient cases to analyse the psychological impact of the vote on the gay group.

Australian Bureau of Statistics Marriage Law Postal Survey form. Source: AAP