Yes I am afraid that is what I am telling you. It isn't just the 'public system' either that is to blame. As is so often the case in dealing with anything to do with mental illness, there are a number of contributing factors.
Not the least of which is that when a community has low or no awareness of the prevalence of mental illness in their community, nor sufficient accurate knowledge (not the same as information) to counteract ignorance (whether that that ignorance is intentional or not), that is when under funding, lack of infrastructure and demonisation of the relevant population cohort, will occur.
Anyway try not to worry about that peripheral stuff right now. The point is, once you get an appointment, I know it is often a long and frustrating wait what seems so out of synch with how terribly you suffer when in crisis. While you are waiting you can access other services like counselling, phone helplines, a GP and other resources as others have outlined in above replies. Try to be proactive wherever you can.
If you feel at any time you cannot wait for help, always call BB or 000 to ensure you keep your self safe.
Good luck.
