World Parkinson’s Day: VMHPAA Calls for Greater Awareness, Compassionate Care, and Research Support
- Shane Warren
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
11 April 2025
World Parkinson’s Day: VMHPAA Calls for Greater Awareness, Compassionate Care, and Research Support
Today, on World Parkinson’s Day, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association Australia (VMHPAA)joins individuals, families, carers, and healthcare providers across the country to raise awareness and advocate for the needs of those living with Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s affects more than 150,000 Australians and presents unique challenges to mental, emotional, and neurological wellbeing—not just for those diagnosed, but also for their support networks.
“We stand in solidarity with every person navigating Parkinson’s and the ripple effects it can have across daily life,” said Shane Warren, Chair of VMHPAA.“Today is a call to action for better education, stronger systems of support, and mental health services that recognise the nuanced experiences of both patients and carers.”
VMHPAA highlights that compassionate mental health care must be an integral part of the broader Parkinson’s care model. The Association also urges for continued investment in:
Community-based counselling and psychosocial supports
Training for vocational mental health professionals to work alongside neurologists and movement specialists
Public education campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage early help-seeking
Greater national funding into research and accessible care solutions
“Every step forward counts, and those steps include empathy, innovation, and listening,” Warren added. “On World Parkinson’s Day, we renew our commitment to those living with this condition and to the professionals who walk alongside them.”
Let’s move together toward awareness, dignity, and hope.
About VMHPAA
The Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association Australia (VMHPAA) is the national professional body for vocationally trained mental health practitioners. We promote high standards of care, support ongoing development, and advocate for equitable and inclusive mental health services across Australia.
Media Contact:
Shane Warren
Chair
VMHPAA
My husband was diagnosed of Parkinsons disease 2 years ago, when he was 49. He had a stooped posture, tremors, right arm does not move and also a pulsating feeling in his body. He was placed on Senemet for 8 months and then Sifrol was introduced and replaced the Senemet, during this time span he was also diagnosed with dementia. He started having hallucinations, lost touch with reality. Suspecting it was the medication I took him off the Siferol (with the doctor’s knowledge) and started him on PD-5 natural herbal formula we ordered from AKNNI HERBAL CENTRE, his symptoms totally declined over a 3 weeks use of the AKANNI HERBAL Parkinson's disease natural herbal formula. He is now almost 51…