THE State government has announced $250,000 to boost the expertise of youth workers across NSW in dealing with mental health issues among young people.
The training, to be co-ordinated through peak body Mental Health First Aid Australia (MHFA), will provide youth workers, particularly those in rural and regional areas, with the skills and confidence to recognise signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in young people and respond effectively.
"Half of all mental illnesses manifest before the age of 14 and three quarters by the age of 25, so it's important that youth workers are equipped to recognise and respond to emerging mental health problems," said Mental Health Minister Jai Rowell.
"Mental health problems can have a profound impact on the lives of young people , making it difficult for them to connect with family and friends, live healthy lives and reach their potential.
"Youth workers play a critical and pivotal role in helping children and young people make sense of the world around them."
MHFA Australia is a not-for-profit organisation focused on mental health training and research.
It provides evidence-based courses which teach mental health first aid strategies to members of the public.
The training will provide participants with skills in how to recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health problems, awareness of a range of treatments available and skills on how to respond to a comprehensive range of mental health crisis situations.
Visit www.mhfa.com.au.