Mental Health Training for Staff: Understanding Mental Health in Ireland


Mental Health Training for Staff: Understanding Mental Health in Ireland

Course Overview: This comprehensive training course is designed to equip mental health professionals and staff with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of mental health care in Ireland. It covers key legislation, regulations, accessible services, and best practices for supporting both staff and service users. The course emphasises legal responsibilities, safeguarding human rights, and promoting mental well-being in the workplace.

Key Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the mental health landscape and services available in Ireland.
  • Gain knowledge of the Mental Health Act 2001 and its updates.
  • Learn to safeguard patient rights while adhering to legal and ethical standards.
  • Explore employment laws and staff well-being, including stress management.
  • Enhance skills in crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and suicide prevention.
  • Participate in practical role-playing scenarios and case study discussions.

Course Content:

  1. Introduction & Objectives
    Overview of mental health in Ireland, key laws, and supporting service user rights.

  2. Mental Health Landscape in Ireland
    Insights into mental health statistics, service providers (HSE, NGOs), and the prevalence of mental health issues.

  3. Mental Health Act 2001
    Legal framework, patient rights, and the process for involuntary detention.

  4. Safeguarding Human Rights
    Ethical considerations, including the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

  5. Staff Well-being and Employment Laws
    Overview of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2005, mental health protections, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).

  6. Accessible Mental Health Services for Service Users
    Detailed look at HSE services, national helplines, and addressing barriers to access.

  7. Suicide Prevention and Crisis Intervention
    Training on the "Connecting for Life" strategy, risk assessment, and crisis response protocols.

  8. Trauma-Informed Care
    Principles of trauma-informed care and managing the emotional impact on staff.

  9. Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System
    Understanding forensic mental health services and ethical challenges in working with law enforcement.

  10. Practical Case Studies and Role-Playing Scenarios
    Real-life scenarios to apply learning in risk assessments and crisis situations.

Who Should Attend: This course is ideal for mental health professionals, care staff, and anyone involved in mental health services or support, including social workers, counsellors, and managers working in community and healthcare settings.

Duration:
The course is structured for delivery over one or two days, with interactive sessions and discussions.

Certification:
Participants will receive a certificate of completion after successfully finishing the course.