Living with a psychosocial disability can significantly impact day-to-day life, making it harder to manage routines, build relationships, and maintain independence. For many Australians, mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe anxiety, or PTSD can become long-term and disabling. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) recognises psychosocial disability and offers tailored supports—but navigating the system can be complex.
At APTOS, we provide experienced, compassionate support coordination for people living with psychosocial disabilities. This article explains what psychosocial disability is, how the NDIS supports mental health, and how support coordination can make a meaningful difference.
What Is a Psychosocial Disability?
A psychosocial disability is a term used to describe the functional impact of a mental health condition. Not everyone with a mental illness will experience psychosocial disability, but for those who do, it may affect:
- Communication and social interaction
- Motivation and planning
- Self-care and hygiene
- Managing finances or appointments
- Emotional regulation
- Concentration and decision-making
Examples of conditions that may lead to psychosocial disability include:
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Major depressive disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Severe anxiety disorders
How the NDIS Supports Psychosocial Disability
The NDIS provides funding for people with permanent and significant disability, including those caused by mental health conditions. To be eligible, the condition must:
- Be diagnosed and ongoing
- Result in substantial functional impairment
- Require support from others to participate in daily life
Once eligible, participants may receive supports such as:
- Psychosocial recovery coaching
- Support coordination
- Therapy or counselling
- Assistance with daily tasks
- Skill-building and independence training
- Community participation
- Support for education, volunteering, or employment
What Is Support Coordination?
Support coordination helps NDIS participants make the most of their plans by connecting them with appropriate services, building independence, and managing their supports effectively. It’s especially valuable for people navigating complex or fluctuating needs, which is often the case with psychosocial disability.
Support coordination includes:
- Understanding your NDIS plan and funding
- Exploring options for therapy, housing, daily support, or recovery coaching
- Connecting with the right service providers
- Advocating for your needs in plan reviews or assessments
- Developing skills to manage your supports independently over time
Why Support Coordination Is Crucial for Psychosocial Disability
1. Fluctuating Support Needs
Mental health conditions can vary over time. Some days may feel manageable, while others can bring significant challenges. APTOS support coordinators understand this and help:
- Adjust supports as needs change
- Prepare for plan reviews with accurate, up-to-date information
- Advocate for flexible funding options
2. Navigating Complex Systems
People with psychosocial disability often engage with multiple services, such as NDIS, mental health care providers, housing agencies, and community programs. Coordinators assist with:
- Service mapping and integration
- Coordinated support across systems
- Avoiding duplication and filling service gaps
3. Building Trust and Relationships
Stigma and past negative experiences can make it hard to trust new providers. APTOS coordinators:
- Take time to build rapport
- Prioritise culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practices
- Support gradual engagement with new services
4. Supporting Recovery-Oriented Goals
While the NDIS focuses on disability, recovery from mental health challenges is still possible. Coordinators help participants:
- Define personal recovery goals (e.g. confidence, connection, hope)
- Connect with peer support, recovery coaching, and psychosocial programs
- Maintain dignity and choice throughout the process
Support Coordination vs Psychosocial Recovery Coaching
Both services can be funded in an NDIS plan. Here’s how they differ:
| Service | Focus | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Support Coordination | Navigating systems and services | Participants with complex or multiple needs |
| Recovery Coaching | Mental health recovery, peer-led | Participants with a psychosocial disability who prefer lived-experience support |
Some participants may benefit from both services, working together to meet goals from different angles.
Common NDIS Goals for People with Psychosocial Disability
- “I want to manage my mental health more independently.”
- “I want to build a routine that helps me stay well.”
- “I want to reconnect with my community or family.”
- “I want support with budgeting and managing appointments.”
Support coordination ensures these goals are linked with practical services that align with a person’s strengths and preferences.
How to Access Support Coordination
To receive support coordination, it must be included in your NDIS plan. If it’s not currently funded:
- Speak to your LAC or planner about your coordination needs.
- Request a plan review if your mental health or situation has changed.
- Gather reports from your GP, psychologist, or caseworker to explain how coordination will help.
- Contact APTOS, and we can help guide you through the process.
Why Choose APTOS for Support Coordination?
At APTOS, we offer:
- Experienced support coordinators with knowledge of mental health and psychosocial disability
- A person-centred, respectful approach
- Collaboration with your existing providers, carers, and health professionals
- Flexible and consistent support based on your comfort and pace
We believe everyone deserves support that sees them as a whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
Living with a psychosocial disability comes with challenges, but the right support can open the door to greater stability, confidence, and connection. NDIS support coordination can be a powerful part of your mental health journey.
Need support navigating your NDIS plan and mental health services? APTOS is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can support your goals and wellbeing.
