Richmond Foundation are satisfied with Minister for Education Evarist Bartolo's statement published in The Malta Independent yesterday, that Mental Health First Aid in schools is the next step forward in First Aid Measures.
In a press release issued by the Foundation, which is 'the only licensed training body for Mental Health First Aid,' they state that they "note with satisfaction Minister Bartolo's statement", adding that "The Ministry of Education's commitment towards this aspect of wellbeing is highly encouraging, when it is estimated that 1 out of every 4 persons experiences mental health problems at any point in time."
Yesterday, The Malta Independent revealed Minister Bartolo's plans to consider introducing Mental Health First Aid in schools, when questioned on the situation regarding first aiders in schools, following statistics presented by the Minister in Parliament last week.
"So far, First Aiders have been associated with physical health. However, now it is considered wise to also prepare First Aiders in (dealing with) mental health," said the Minister, noting that that "issues of mental health in children have increased." With first aiders who are trained in mental health, Mr Bartolo said that "if there are people who are feeling stressed or depressed, they can recognize the signs and try to help them".
The Richmond Foundation explains that Mental Health First Aid is an internationally recognized course, which approximately 1000 people are trained in through the Foundation.
"Mental Health First Aid provides knowledge about the main mental health problems such as depression and anxiety and their symptoms. During the course participants explore skills relevant to assisting people who are experiencing such difficulties, " they said, "the course also explores mental health crises, such as panic attacks, aggression and self-harm, and guides the participants on how to support persons in difficulty, and lead them to seek professional help."
The course is open to both professionals and the general public. More information about Mental Health First Aid is available at http://www.richmond.org.mt/mhfa/