Mental health first aid project launched

A Teen Mental Health First Aid Training Project has been launched at the Peninsula Community Centre by NSW Minister for Multiculturalism, Mr Ray Williams.

The program will be for Years 10, 11 and 12 students to help them to recognise the signs of mental health problems.

The project was a result of a survey completed by 700 local young people, in which 80 per cent recognised the need for improved information on mental health issues.

Representing the NSW Department of Family and Community Services, Mr Williams was joined by Coast Community Connections president Ms Sharryn Brownlee and the organisation's acting CEO Ms Jenni Allan, who accepted the $20,000 grant to fund the project.

"Our Evolution Youth Services team will be facilitating a number of sessions with young people in the local community to help them understand the signs of poor mental health including depression, anxiety, psychosis and eating disorders," Ms Allan said.

"The rollout of the Teen Mental Health First Aid Project will be delivered through three 75 minute sessions and will also provide information and tools to assist young people to better recognise and detect signs of mental health crisis, touching on issues such as suicide, aggressive behaviour, self-injury, trauma and substance abuse," she said.

As well as launching the youth program, Mr Williams took the opportunity to take a tour of the organisation's ageing and disability services facilities located in the Yaringaa building at Woy Woy.

Media release, 14 Mar 2017

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