Western Sydney, NSW — The Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has appointed Jason Sevil as the General Manager of Mental Health Services, heralding a new chapter in mental health care for the western Sydney community.
With nearly three decades of experience in various healthcare roles, Jason Sevil’s career spans acute care, intensive care, neuro-disability, rehabilitation, case management, assertive outreach, and forensic mental health. His journey has taken him across metro Sydney and internationally to the United Kingdom, Bermuda, and the Republic of Ireland.
Sevil began his healthcare career in 1996 as a registered nurse (RN). Encouraged by a university tutor during a clinical rotation, he chose to specialize in mental health, a field where he found his true calling.
“I was drawn to connecting with people facing mental health challenges,” Sevil said. “This has led to incredible opportunities for me, to be available and help people when they are at their most vulnerable.”
Sevil expressed his pride in being part of WSLHD and praised the dedicated staff of Mental Health Services who support individuals across their lifespan with various mental illnesses and disorders.
“Our services range from prevention to early detection, early intervention, triage, assessment, acute and sub-acute care, and ongoing support in the community,” Sevil explained. “All treatment is recovery-oriented, working in partnership with the consumer and carer.”
WSLHD’s community mental health teams are based in Parramatta, Merrylands, Auburn, Granville, Hills, and Blacktown, with inpatient units located in Westmead, Cumberland, and Blacktown hospitals.
Reflecting on his new role, Sevil emphasized the importance of the relationships forged with vulnerable patients, which inspire him and fuel his career.
“For me, it’s a very privileged position to be let in and afforded the opportunity to work with people. I get a great deal of satisfaction from it,” he said.
Sevil’s leadership style focuses on collaboration and transformational leadership, aiming to enable clinicians to deliver the most effective care while safeguarding their well-being.
“Staff who choose a career in mental health know it’s a special pathway, like no other. It is incredibly satisfying but not without challenges,” he noted. “It’s crucial to seek a balance involving self-care, supervision, mentorship, and non-work activities to maintain resilience.”
As he embarks on this new chapter, Sevil is driven by a sense of purpose and a commitment to making a difference. He is optimistic about the future, confident that with dedicated staff and supportive communities, WSLHD can navigate the challenges ahead and continue to foster a culture of compassion and excellence in mental health care.
Sevil is committed to championing person-centred care, highlighting the exciting developments and opportunities in the mental health field.
“It’s an exciting time for Mental Health. There are so many wonderful and innovative developments and opportunities for the staff and people of western Sydney,” he said. “In essence, mental health can be a tough gig, but it is rewarding. I’m very proud of our staff and what we can achieve. It’s essential to get the balance right as we navigate these complexities.”
Beyond his professional life, Sevil maintains his own balance with a passion for travel, gardening, music, and playing the guitar. He also enjoys keeping up with streaming services and podcasts, all of which provide a welcome respite from the demands of his profession.
“As I embark on this new chapter in my career, I am driven by a sense of purpose and a commitment to making a difference,” Sevil concluded. “Together, with dedicated staff and supportive communities, I am positive that we can navigate the challenges ahead and continue to foster a culture of compassion and excellence in mental health care.”
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