Mental health has been part of our everyday language as it has been increasingly talked about as a medical, social, and professional issue. But as more people talk about it and shed more light on specific issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders and more, there are still old notions that prevent people from recognising these issues, and therefore treating them. We believe that now is a great time to learn more about mental health so as a community we can be more discerning of our human experience and be advocates for better mental health.

UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF MENTAL ILLNESS

Mental health issues do not discriminate – people of all ages, gender identities, backgrounds, abilities and classes experience them differently. According to the Black Dog Institute, one in five (20%) Australians aged 16-85 experience a mental illness in any year. Yet, 54% of people with mental illness do not access any treatment.

Without support and treatment, people can develop obsessive compulsions, social anxieties, and other manifestations that worsen both their physical and mental health, and other aspects of their lives. By learning the foundation of mental health and wellbeing, upholding the legal responsibilities to treat patients, and understanding the impact of mental illness to people and those around them, you will be making a difference to your community. Knowing about the many different issues provides you a more informed perspective to understand people and empathise with them in their journey.

ELIMINATE THE STIGMA AROUND MENTAL ILLNESS

Mental struggles can happen to anyone and are part of being human, so we should normalise how we discuss mental illnesses. When we join the conversation, we help enlighten people who do not necessarily understand what it’s like to have a mental illness. We also let people know that they are not alone in their problems, and that help is accessible whenever they need it.

When you educate yourself through these Community Mental Health courses, you become part of the solution in breaking the toxic attitudes and narratives around mental illness, and by changing outdated perceptions. Educating yourself can ultimately mean saving other people’s lives, especially those in dire situations. In fact, it has been claimed that access to treatment is essential as approximately 75% of people admitted to public sector mental health inpatient services improve notably.

EQUIP YOURSELF WITH THE RIGHT SKILLS

Enrolling yourself in a Community Mental Health course will not only teach you the fundamentals of understanding mental health and human behaviours but will also provide you the right tools and skills to be an effective mental health worker. Learn about the following core modules:

• Nature and scope of mental health
• Childhood depression and possible impact into adolescence
• Holistic and alternative approaches to treatment
• Helping yourself in mental health issues
• Services for mental health issues

At the end of this Community Mental Health course, you will receive a certificate that will open opportunities for you in your career as a mental health worker.

Enhance your skills in recognising mental health issues, assessing signs and symptoms of mental illness, and approaching people with solutions that make sense for them. Courses4me’s Community Mental Health course will help you have a better grasp of your responsibilities and the best practices of mental health workers.