Addressing the challenges of mental health within the community truly is possible, but the community must first be sufficiently informed and trained to assist those facing this challenge. This was the message sent by Dr. Lydia Abela during a discussion with Year 9 students at the Żejtun Secondary School, after they completed a mental health first aid course.
The course, part of the ‘SPEAK’ initiative, aims to raise awareness about mental health and is now offered to ninth-grade students in all schools. Funded by donations from the ‘Smiles with Miles’ initiative and the Bank of Valletta, the course is a result of collaboration with the Richmond Foundation.
The course helps students understand how to provide initial assistance to individuals with mental health challenges. Dr. Abela worked closely with the Foundation and the Commissioner for Mental Health, Dennis Vella Baldacchino, to develop the course, which trains students to identify signs of mental health issues. The 25-hour course is also available to educators, emphasising sensitivity and empathy. So far, around five thousand students and three hundred and thirty educators have participated.
Dr. Abela emphasised that mental health should be a regular topic of discussion and addressed appropriately. She highlighted the importance of society supporting everyone to recover and live better lives, promoting awareness and prevention.
Also present were Education Minister Clifton Grima and Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela, who praised the initiative for aligning with the Government’s vision and demonstrating that mental health involves more than just treatment and medication.
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