Free Community Mental Health First-Aid Training now available

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If you suspect someone you know may need help or support due to a mental health condition, but you’re unsure, or don’t know how to help, Council is offering two free Community Mental Health First-Aid Training courses next month.

The two-day courses will be held in Mildura and Ouyen on the following dates:

Ouyen

Monday and Tuesday 21/22 October

Council’s Ouyen Service Centre

79 Oke Street

9am – 4pm both days.

Mildura

Thursday and Friday 24/25 October

Sandors Motor Inn

179 Deakin Avenue

9am – 4pm both days.

Councillor for Community Wellbeing and Services Min Poole said the training would cover how to identify the signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions, how to provide initial assistance and how to arrange professional help.

“Mental health is a massive issue, not just in our community, but across the country,” Cr Poole said.

“It doesn’t discriminate and affects people of all ages and backgrounds, meaning it’s likely someone you know or work with has, or will, be impacted by a mental health condition.

“By learning about the warning signs or symptoms, you can either provide support and assistance, or help connect people to the professional help they require.”

The training will include tips on providing mental health first aid in a crisis situation and is a nationally accredited course, conducted by an accredited trainer.

Topics and conditions covered in the training will include:

  • depression and anxiety
  • psychosis
  • substance use problems
  • suicidal thoughts and behaviours
  • non-suicidal self-injury
  • panic attacks
  • traumatic events
  • aggressive behaviours.

Due to the limited number of places, residents are asked to submit an expression of interest to undertake the training.

Forms can be obtained by visiting www.mildura.vic.gov.au/MentalHealthFirstAid or in hard copy at Council’s Deakin Avenue, Madden Avenue or Ouyen Service Centres. Forms need to be returned by 5pm on Friday 11 October.

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