Mental Health First Aid Course

Last weekend, Novata Solutions hosted Mental Health First Aid course, facilitated by our client Chris Jackson from MOLAD. Attendees included our CEO, Project Managers, Team Leads, Developers and Designers, as well as a guest from Orana House. The 12-hour Standard Mental Health First Aid course was facilitated in workshops over two days, consisting of theory and practical components that taught us how to provide Mental Health First Aid.

The course content covered how to recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in adults, and how to provide initial support to someone who may be experiencing a mental health problem or crisis.

In Australia, one in five people experience a form of common mental illness in any one year, whilst suicide remains as the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15-44 years of age. Mental Health First Aiders provide early intervention and support for people who may be developing mental health problems, experiencing worsening mental health problems, or going through a mental health crisis.

Mental Health First Aid was developed in Australia in 2000 by Betty Kitchener and Professor Tony Jorm. The courses developed by MHFA Australia are founded upon clinical, scientific research, and have been shown to help increase knowledge and confidence, whilst reducing stigma surrounding mental health.

An important focus for Novata Solutions is to encourage our colleagues to reach out for support and provide support and resources for team members who may be struggling with their mental health at work or at home. Like traditional First Aid Officers, we believe Mental Health First Aiders are an important part of the workplace. Our accredited team members are now appointed as MHFA officers within the Novata Solutions workplace and are committed to assisting those around us who are in need.