In a proactive initiative led by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation’s Safe and Well team, the importance of Mental Health First Aid was underscored during recent sessions designed to empower participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to identify and address various mental health scenarios.
Athanae Lucev, Senior Communications Officer in the Corporate Communications team, lauded the sessions as highly informative, emphasizing their role in reminding individuals to remain vigilant about their colleagues’ well-being in the workplace.
“Mental health significantly influences our professional demeanor, and recognizing when a colleague requires support, guiding them towards professional assistance or support services, can yield a substantial impact,” she remarked.
Lucev acknowledged a positive shift in workplace attitudes towards mental health discussions, highlighting the evolving trend of workplaces actively fostering a safe environment for their employees.
Conducted by Mental Health First Aid Australia, renowned for its leading mental health first aid training, the department initially introduced the course in November 2023 as part of an internal well-being strategy.
Given that one in five Australians grapples with a mental health issue annually, workplaces are increasingly recognizing the necessity of staff equipped to provide assistance.
“The training equips us with valuable resources to identify opportunities for aiding those dealing with challenging situations. I encourage anyone interested in expanding their understanding of mental health to explore the Mental Health First Aid training opportunity,” urged Athanae.
Beyond endowing participants with the proficiency and confidence to recognize and respond to mental health challenges faced by colleagues, friends, or family members, the course was characterized by its practical, skills-oriented approach, offering tangible strategies and ample room for discussion and peer-to-peer learning.
Anticipating ongoing commitment to employee well-being, the department has announced plans for additional sessions in the future.
