Part B

Part B 1 Additional Information about Entry – up to 1 x A4 page. Rationale for the Program Mental health problems are common in the community, so members of the public are likely to have close contact with people affected. However, many people are not well informed about how to recognize mental health problems, how to provide support and what are the best treatments and services available. Furthermore, many people developing mental disorders do not get professional help or delay getting professional help. Someone in their social network who is informed about the options available for professional or other support can assist the person to get appropriate help. In mental health crises, such as a person feeling suicidal, deliberately harming themselves, having a panic attack or being acutely psychotic, someone with mental health first aid skills can reduce the risk of the person coming to harm. There is also stigma and discrimination against people with mental health problems, which may be reduced by improving public understanding of their experiences.