DAILY News readers have taken to the internet to share their disgust and frustration at the inadequacies of Warwick's Mental Health Department, following our story on the issue on Saturday.

Warwick residents spoke out about their inability to access services at McCarthy House, adding staff were inattentive and cries for help were being ignored.

Concerning allegations surfaced after one resident said staff "weren't there" when the person was seeking help for a depressed relative.

The person said simply contacting mental health services was a challenge - despite an advertised 24-hour phone line - with repeated calls being diverted back to the Warwick Hospital switchboard.

Readers flooded the Daily News website at the weekend to share similar experiences with the system.

Mum-of-seven from Warwick said the situations described in the article were "not surprising" and described her personal plight.

"My husband was referred to Mental Health Services on two separate occasions by doctors at the hospital for severe depression and they didn't want to know, so he is being treated by GPs at the outpatients department," she posted.

"Must be nice to get a big fat pay cheque for doing nothing."

Another Warwick resident, nicknamed DMSOJR, said there was too much money-wasting going on by the government.

"This is a disgrace but sadly not surprising. Queensland Health is top-heavy with overpaid bureaucrats," DMSOJR posted.

"I believe Queensland Health would be far more effective if there was a cull and the money saved went to essential services and providing those in need with immediate assistance.

"Just imagine where the wasted money from the payroll debacle could have been spent. They talk the talk but they don't walk the walk."

Warwick resident Larri said he was disgusted by the situation and said he had first-hand experience with the department.

"Maybe the district health co-ordinator and their team at the next coffee workshop should decide what is more important. Those urgently in need of new laptops and what car I want for the next buy," he said.

Darryl Evans of Warwick lashed out at those at the helm of the system, saying referrals to GPs was not the answer.

"Great, just great. If I can recap, you are feeling suicidal, but do not call Queensland Health because you won't be answered or you are going to be put on hold.

"Does this twit that claims referring you back to an already over-worked GP that also has a waiting list, not acknowledge that Queensland Health is letting people down when they need help the most?''

He said the only other option was to seek help from a charity but said lack of funds was another hurdle in affected people's plight for help.

"Crikey, will Queensland Health (issue) shotguns to depressed people to drop the queues?

"They need to come up with a serious solution instead of passing the buck."

JenD took to the site, saying the incidents outlined in the story were "disgraceful" and that the lack of access could be contributing to the number of suicides taking place.

"For someone to reach out for help and it not be there - no wonder there are so many suicides and undiagnosed people with mental health issues," she said.

Queensland Health said anyone needing mental health treatment should contact the hospital emergency department.

Complaints about local mental health services should be directed to Southern Downs service manager Tracey Morgan on 4660 3931.

Help for those with depression or suicidal thoughts is available:

• Headspace 4661 1999
• Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800
• Lifeline on 13 11 14