Work Healthy Australia is proud to announce the launch of Mental Health First Aid Training for workplaces.

Around 1 in 5 Australians between the ages of 16 and 85 will experience mental illness each year, and almost half (45%) of Australians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime.

While the onset of mental illness typically occurs between the ages of 18 and 24, around 60% of claims relating to mental health conditions are awarded to workers over 40. 

Mental health conditions continue to record the highest compensation paid ($27,700 in 2015-16), and the highest increase in lost time (rising to 17 weeks in 2015-16 from 11.2 weeks in 2000-01).

Mental Health First Aid Training aims to improve knowledge of mental illnesses, treatments and the appropriate first aid strategies, while also building confidence to provide first aid to individuals experiencing mental illness.

The course covers a wide range of topics, including:

Mental Health Problems
For example depression, anxiety problems and substance abuse.

Mental Health Crisis
For example suicidal thoughts and behaviours, non-suicidal self-injury and traumatic events

With workers compensation claims relating to mental health conditions on the rise, now more than ever is a great time to start talking about mental health in the workplace.

By completing the 12 hour course and an online assessment, participants can become an accredited Mental Health First Aider.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID TRAINING HERE.

References: National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing: Summary of Results, 4326.0, 2007
Australian workers compensation statistics 2016-17, The economic cost of serious mental illness and comorbidities in Australia and New Zealand, Creating a Mentally Healthy Workplace Return on Investment Analysis, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Investing to save: The economic benefits for Australia of investment in mental health reform