Life Promotions Program

Mental Health First Aid

There are many reasons why people benefit from training in Mental Health First Aid. Mental health problems are a common part of our society, the most common being depression, anxiety and psychotic disorders. Thus there is a high probability throughout the course of any person’s life that they may either develop a mental illness or come into contact with someone who does.

In addition to this, there is often a stigma associated with mental illness, which can lead to people being ashamed about seeking help or seeking the wrong type of help. Also, professional help is not always on hand, therefore the actions of a helper can play a vital role in determining how quickly a person experiencing a problem receives help and/or recovers.

Mental Health First Aid aims to provide participants with skills and knowledge about a range of mental health issues. It is hoped this information will help participants to manage a potential or developing mental health problem in him or herself or in a family member or in a friend or work colleague.

Like regular first aid training, the course does not train people to become professional “counsellors or therapists”, nor to diagnosis health problems. However, it does provide participants with up-to-date information on depression, anxiety, psychosis, schizophrenia and substance use disorders. Participants in the course will learn:

• how to recognize the symptoms of mental illnesses
• possible causes or risk factors and the evidence-based medical, psychological and alternative treatments available
• how to give appropriate initial help and support to a person suffering one of these mental illnesses
• how to take appropriate action if a crisis situation arises involving suicidal behavior, panic attack, stress reaction to trauma or threatening psychotic behavior

For more information on Mental Health First Aid visit www.mhfa.com.au

For information on upcoming courses contact MHACA on 8950 4600