Are your training needs being fulfilled?

MMHA conducted a training needs survey to identify the professional development needs of those working in the mental health sector. The results from that survey have shown some interesting findings and raises the question about whether these training needs are being fulfilled.

One key need that was identified in this survey was for more training in culturally and linguistically diverse communities (CALD). The majority of  survey respondents worked in community health or mental health settings, and about 10% were consumers or carers. The survey found that while many of the informants had attended some form of training in the previousyear, only a third had attended training directly related to mental health issues in CALD communities.

Many respondents identified that key priorities in professional training including knowing where and how to obtain cultural assistance and understanding cultural beliefs in mental health and mental illness. Many said this knowledge was essential in working effectively with clients from CALD backgrounds. Others identified promoting good mental health, working with families, understanding risks and protective factors and  the impact of culture and religion on mental health as priority areas.

It was apparent that participants embraced a more holistic approach in addressing issues outside the biomedical framework (eg. spirituality, cultural beliefs and family dynamics). This broadened perspective can help to extend mental health services from intervention to prevention -  ie. tapping into the strengths (resilience) and recognising risk factors early.

Survey participants also expressed the need for cultural competency training at the policy planning level. They also highlighted how this specific training could bring about attitudinal change. In addition to calls to expand cultural knowledge of specific ethnic groups, respondents also raised the need for training in developing generic skills in working with new migrants. This not only resonates with the shift to a ‘preventive’ approach, but also an integrated one in service delivery.