Mental health discussed

IPSWICH Region Community Church is meeting the needs of its volunteers and staff by running seminars on issues of interest, and it invites others to take advantage of the training.

Coming up on March 23, from 7pm to 9.30pm, is the church’s first Ipswich community training night for 2010 – about mental health awareness.

The training covers depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicide and self-harm.

Volunteer Grace Zarb said the church’s Abundant Life Initiative and youth programs ran the training.

“We decided as a church to open up these sessions to other churches and NGOs in the community who don’t have a lot of funding – and so they could afford the low-cost fee of $15 for 2.5 hours of training by a qualified psychologist,” she said.

“The seminar is aimed at increasing understanding of the mental health issues that occur most often in our community.

“They will better equip staff and volunteers to encourage and support their clients who experience mental distress, as well as assist to protect themselves and build greater resilience as care providers.”

Ms Zarb said the church ran a community drop-in centre at 241 Brisbane Street, Ipswich, on Thursdays from 3.30pm to 7.30pm, providing afternoon tea and an evening meal.

A high school program is run by psychologist Liz Dell for students who have experienced abuse-related trauma.

Ms Dell will also conduct this month’s seminar on mental health awareness at the church, at 332 Ripley Road, Flinders View.

Training is only for those working in areas where they are dealing with the community – not for those suffering from mental health problems.

For bookings, call 3389 6538.