Dr Claire Kelly is talking mental health and becoming a Mental Health First Aider

Show notes In this episode, I chat with Dr. Claire Kelly, the Manager of Research and Evaluation at Mental Health First Aid Australia. We chat about the distinctions between mental health and mental illness, barriers to help-seeking, and the impacts of not getting treatment early. Dr. Kelly shares insights on mental health literacy, the importance of early intervention, and how Mental Health First Aid training equips people with the skills to support others.Themes:Understanding Mental Health and Mental Illness:Mental health, much like physical health, exists on a continuum. You can have good or poor health, and it's possible to manage a mental illness effectively while maintaining overall good health.Barriers to Help-Seeking:Help-seeking is generally low across all age groups, with young people being particularly hesitant. They often experience low levels of stigma towards others but higher self-stigma, feeling they should manage on their own. Additionally, the normal changes during adolescence—such as shifts in focus, mood, and physical and behavioural changes—can make it hard to recognise when someone is struggling.Impact of Not Getting Early Treatment:Not seeking help early can negatively impact educational outcomes, physical development, and social relationships. Withdrawal due to mental health issues can lead to loneliness, making it even harder to reach out for help.Key Takeaways:Recognising Symptoms:Look for major negative changes in someone’s feelings, thinking, and behaviour that impact their ability to function and enjoy relationships. If these changes last more than a couple of weeks, they likely need help.Help-Seeking Behaviour:Encourage open conversations about mental health. People are often afraid of making things worse or being seen as nosy, but it’s important to reach out and offer support.Mental Health First Aid Training:Mental Health First Aid training provides education on recognising symptoms and identifying if someone is in crisis. It doesn’t teach counselling or diagnosis but offers a plan for connecting someone with the help they need.Featured Quotes:"Mental health is like health – it’s a continuum. You can have good health or poor health, and it's the same with mental health." – Dr. Claire Kelly"It's okay to have these conversations. I think so often people really care, but they don't take that next step because they're afraid they'll make things worse." – Dr. Claire Kelly"Every single person should attend a mental health first aid course in the same way that I think every single person should attend a first aid course." – Dr. Claire KellyMentioned Links and Resources:Mental Health First Aid Australia – Find resources and instructors in your area.Submit a question to the Podcasthttps://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6 Read the full transcript here https://marievakakis.com.au/having-conversations-about-mental-health-and-becoming-a-mental-health-first-aider/Connect with Marie https://thetherapyhub.com.au/ https://marievakakis.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/Mentioned in this episode:5 Days to Career Clarity in Social WorkReflect, plan, and take your next step with confidence. Feeling stuck or unsure about your next move? https://mailchi.mp/marievakakis/days-to-career-clarity-in-social-work 5 Days to Career Clarity in Social WorkReflect, plan, and take your next step with confidence. Feeling stuck or unsure about your next move? https://mailchi.mp/marievakakis/days-to-career-clarity-in-social-work