The free psychological first aid training sessions aim to better support people who have been affected by trauma.
Phoenix Australia is the Australian National Centre of Excellence in post-traumatic mental health. They offer clinical services, education, consultation, support and research for people who have experienced traumatic events.
The sessions cover how to reduce the initial distress, assist people to cope in the days and weeks following a traumatic event, and deal with the long-term impacts of trauma, such as on anniversaries.
They will be offering sessions at Echuca Neighbourhood House on Wednesday, May 8 from 2pm to 6pm and Thursday, May 9 from 9am to 1pm.
Campaspe Shire Council will also host a session on Thursday, May 9 from 2pm to 6pm, and another on Friday, May 10 from 9am to 1pm.
Recommended techniques and skills of psychological first aid include:
- Understanding how people respond to trauma
- Providing psychological first aid safely and effectively
- Listening and communication
- Understanding how to help others stay calm and support them
- Looking after yourself
To register for one of the free sessions, go to: Psychological First Aid Sessions Campaspe Shire Council
Echuca Neighbourhood House, 39 Landsborough St, Echuca VIC 3564.
Campaspe Shire Council, 2 Heygarth St, Echuca, VIC 3564.