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New course supports learner on quest to help youth

Having navigated mental health issues all her life, Sinead O’Connell has always known the important role that mental health professionals play in our community. Now, she is working towards becoming that person for troubled youth, thanks to a new course at Kangan Institute.

Currently enrolled in the TAFE’s Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) course that launched in July, Sinead said the program has enabled her to progress her personal quest to work in mental health.

“I’m studying this course because I’ve suffered from mental health issues all my life. I’m in recovery, but I’m in a place now where I can help other people,” Sinead said.

Reflecting on her journey, the 33-year-old said starting work at a pub helped her gain confidence to pursue a career that supported the community.

“I actually hadn’t been working until about four years ago. I went up to Rutherglen and started managing the pub with my mum. There I found the confidence to have customer service skills and started interacting with the community. That’s when I decided I wanted to keep going and go back to what I love,” Sinead shared.

A Free TAFE student, Sinead hopes her training will enable her to make a positive difference amongst young people.

“Part of the course is about the resources available, about how to support people to get the support that they need, and the individualised care that’s available in Victoria,” Sinead said.

“I’ve been in and out of the mental health system for probably 23 years and I saw a lot of youth just not getting the support they deserve and I just want to give back.

“I hope to empower people to choose a quality life. I hope to empower people to advocate for themselves and to see past their illness and see themselves as a human being.”

(Sinead with Kangan Institute teacher Rebecca May)

With the mental health sector facing specific skill and labour challenges according to the 2022-2023 Victorian Skills Plan, Kangan Institute Acting Chief Executive Officer Janelle Arena said the new mental health course is designed to prepare individuals for a career in an in-demand sector.

“Kangan Institute is committed to working with the Victorian Government and industry to deliver skills and training that align to critical skill needs,” Janelle said.

“Through our new mental health course, we are providing students like Sinead with a pathway into a sector experiencing strong demand and increasing job opportunities right across Australia.

“We are thrilled to be part of the learning journey of our new mental health students, and we look forward to the impact that they’ll make as part of the future mental health workforce.”

Kangan Institute is celebrating World Mental Health Day on 10 October with a spotlight on students who are preparing for a career in mental health support.

A Free TAFE course, the 11-month Certificate IV in Mental Health is designed for individuals seeking careers in or who are responsible for providing care and support to individuals with mental illness and psychiatric disabilities.

Mental health courses are being considered as part of the offering in the new Health and Community Centre of Excellence at Broadmeadows campus set to open in 2025.