Why IncludeEd Was Founded

In both my career as an educator and in my personal life, I've witnessed a significant increase in the number of people experiencing mental health issues that have impacted on their lives. The lived experience and death of my step-daughter, Jana, who suicided after struggling with Schizophrenia and addiction for many years, has been instrumental in founding IncludeEd, and its mission to provide accessible Mental Health First Aid training for as many people as possible. 

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Having more people trained in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) will help to increase understanding and reduce judgement and stigma in our communities. It also means that there will be more help available when and where it is needed. 

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With 20% of Australians experiencing a common mental illness in any one year, and only 35% of those receiving professional help, it is likely that you also know somebody who is struggling. It may be a family member, a colleague, a neighbour or even someone you meet in passing. MHFA training can help you to recognise the signs of mental illness, and give you the confidence and knowledge to help a person access appropriate help.

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Please contact me to find out how you too can become a Mental Health First Aider.

You can make a difference,

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Paula

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For the statistics on mental illness in Australia, please visit: https://stats.mhfa.com.au

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