Did you know that 1 in 5 Australians will experience mental health problems in any given year? (National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing, 2022).
In our current society, mental illness is said to affect every Australian, whether that be through their own experience, or through that of a friend, family member, colleague or fellow community member.
Recently, The CEO of New Mornings (an Ulverstone-based not-for-profit organisation which supports individuals with complex mental health conditions, grief and loss or trauma), Kelly Dernehl, gained her license as a standard Mental Health First Aide Instructor. This enables Kelly to train community members to gain their Mental Health First Aide certification. Adults who complete the course become Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAiders), equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to provide someone with mental health information and support when it matters most.
Using a practical, evidence-based action plan, course participants learn how to approach someone they are concerned about and initiate a conversation about those concerns. Participants also learn how to offer initial support and information and how to encourage the person to seek professional help or other supports.
It is so important that individuals feel a sense of connection and belonging in their local community. Often, this can be a hard first step, but we are very fortunate to have a number of local, grass-roots organisations which seek to offer that atmosphere of connection.
If you would like more information about the Mental Health First Aid Course, or how you can get connected in the local community, please contact New Mornings, and we will be happy to help.
Kelly Dernehl, CEO of New Mornings and newly licensed Mental Health First Aid Instructor.