14. Mental Health First Aid training

Mental Health First Aid training is a program developed by the Australian National University.   It provides participants with the knowledge and skills to recognize mental health problems in themselves and others and where to access relevant services. The Network can assist in delivery of this program to the farming sector by support at state level and assistance at local level to ensuring participation .

Other means of communication of information should be explored, and might include getting good mental health information out through the Rural Report on ABC radio. For example 5 minutes of top mental health stuff followed by local contact details – mix high profile and local speakers.

Lead action: Brian Kelly Coordinator

Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health:
Mental Health First Aid Training
www.crrmh.com.au

Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University
www.anu.edu.au/cmhr/

Mental Health First Aid
http://www.mhfa.com.au/

15. Reducing the stigma associated with mental disorder

People with mental disorder, including those with depression, report difficulty in dealing with the stigma associated with having a mental illness or disorder. This is magnified if treatment is needed in a psychiatric hospital. The Network should consider what role it can play in addressing this problem in rural communities.

Lead action: Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health

Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health
www.crrmh.com.au

The Black Dog Institute:
Reducing the stigma associated with a mental disorder
www.blackdoginstitute.org.au

Mental Health organisations in Australia
www.crrmh.com.au/

Resources and programs focussing on the mental health
and wellbeing of people of NSW farms
www.mulganet.net.au/