SANE is calling out corporate double standards as some of Australia's retailers continue to sell costumes that portray people living with complex mental health issues as “insane”, warning that charitable donations to mental health organisations must be matched by responsible business practices.

Recent headlines and commentary have revived some of the oldest, most inaccurate and most damaging stereotypes about severe mental illness: that people living with schizophrenia or experiencing psychosis are inherently dangerous.

As the national organisation representing Australians impacted by severe, long-term or complex mental ill health, SANE recognises the terrible circumstances surrounding the alleged attack on Independent MP for Indi, Helen Haines and resulting impact and trauma for her family, friends and community. 

When SANE Forums were launched in 2014, they broke new ground as Australia’s first nationally available online peer support community for people living with complex mental health issues, and for families and carers. At a time when mental health support was often difficult to access, particularly outside major cities, the Forums provided an accessible new option for many thousands of people.

SANE is pleased to announce the appointment of Peter Dean GAICD, Dr Rosa Flaherty GAICD, Michael Linke GAICD and Natalie Truong to the SANE Board.

This year marks an important milestone for SANE as we celebrate 40 years of supporting Australians living with complex mental health needs.