PORT Authority of New South Wales has launched a new initiative aimed at supporting the mental health of its staff and removing stigma around mental health in maritime.
The announcement coincides with R U OK?Day on 8 September, a national day of action to remind Australians to initiate meaningful conversations with those who appear to be struggling with life.
Port Authority of New South Wales said the workplace provides an important setting to assist people struggling with their mental health.
Dirk Ovenden, Port Authority’s general manager Work, Health and Safety, said the new initiative involves delivering accredited mental health first aid training so employees are ready to assist where needed.
“Port Authority implemented a limited trial of the program and the feedback was outstanding from participants, so now we are offering numerous courses internally to formally train staff in providing appropriate mental health detection and support,” Mr Ovenden said.
“By embedding mental health first aiders and access to support across the business, Port Authority aims to promote an everyday awareness of mental health, as there is for medical first aid, within our daily operations.”
Mr Ovenden said Port Authority wants the initiative to be one of the main mechanisms to assist staff experiencing mental health issues, particularly after COVID-19.
He said more people are being encouraged to take the course so a greater number of individuals can be well-equipped to help others.
“The training course gives participants tools to identify issues and uses a step-by-step approach to provide support to those who require it.
“The more people who know how to recognise key aspects in behaviour, the higher chance of people being aware there could be a problem.”
Australian suicide prevention charity R U OK? encourages business leaders, owners and employees to create safe, supportive and encouraging workplace cultures.
R U OK? resources for workplaces can be accessed through its website, available here.
For crisis support or counselling services, help is available at lifeline.org.au and beyondblue.org.au.
