Research shows how mental health training may help families
Most adults are trained to provide physical first aid to someone in need, but what about someone having a panic attack or struggling with depression?
Families see firsthand the severe consequences of mental health issues on veterans in our community. A study from the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation (GMRF) has revealed that 12 hours of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training for family members may help support veterans living with mental health concerns.
Sponsored by Medibank’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund, GMRF’s Mental Health First Aid Study looked at what family members can do to help veterans in immediate need. The study was published last year with positive and insightful findings.
Some veterans may not feel comfortable asking for professional help. This leaves family members such as parents, partners or even children potentially isolated when supporting their loved one with mental health difficulties. Over time, the isolation and shame can become emotionally exhausting and lead to high rates of depression and anxiety in family members. The stressors that come with providing emotional support to veterans with mental health conditions are unique, but adequate training for family members is currently limited.
The study looked at how family members may better support veterans with mental health conditions using MHFA training. The study was conducted with more than 50 participants from veteran households attending MHFA training session run by an accredited MHFA practitioner.
Standard MHFA training involves sharing information on common mental health conditions including depression, anxiety and substance abuse. The course focuses on providing real-world skills through a five-step action plan. The 12-hour training includes practice sessions where participants are taught how to apply these steps in a range of situations. As with physical first aid, MHFA is designed to provide immediate care until professional help can be accessed.
Among the findings were that 90% of participants who were followed up reported being able to support their veteran family member and believed the support had a positive impact. Others responded that they felt prepared and confident to deal with someone suffering from a mental health problem. This outcome clearly shows the value that the MHFA program can offer to veterans and their families. Many attendees stated that they would recommend this program to other people in similar situations.
If you or someone you know would like to take MFHA course, Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling, in partnership with the RSL, runs frequent two-day workshops around Australia. Visit the Open Arms website for more information.
If you would like to learn more about GMRF or would like to support research efforts, please visit the GMRF website.
If you are in need of assistance, call