The Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds Foundation, known for providing mental health management and support across the road transport, warehousing and logistics sectors, is offering their services for free for a limited period.
The development of courses such as these have come in response to discussion surrounding the awareness of mental health issues present particularly in these sectors.
Together, these sectors make an industry which is ranked the lowest in Australia for workplace mental health and wellbeing.
Early intervention and preventative measures are critical to protect and support industry workers said Healthy Heads CEO Naomi Frauenfelder.
“Offering training programs for those working within the industry is a proactive approach, giving people the skills, knowledge and experience to look after their own mental health, and support those around them,” she said.
Some of the important mental health concepts featured in the training courses include strategies for recognising warning signs of distress, communicating safety about mental health and suicide, responding with empathy and without judgement, de-escalating anger and knowing the factors that support wellness.
These courses are delivered both in-person and online, running from two hours of self-paced learning to two days of face-to-face courses, applying to all workers in the targeted sectors.
“The training courses have been specifically tailored to people working in the sector to ensure that each course is relatable and effective,” said Frauenfelder.
Some industry employers whom have implemented the Healthy Heads training programs have since reported positive results.
Geoff Crouch, Director of Ron Crouch Transport, speaks very highly of them.
“I would encourage every other employer to check out the Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds website, look at the various training courses that are available, and see what you can do as far as facilitating training for your people,” he said.
“Make a difference within your organisation, make a real difference in our community.”