Here we share some tips on talking to people who have mental health problems:
Expand the sections below…
Use agreed processes to monitor mental health and support appropriately.
Early detection of problems can lead to a much better outcome for the individual. As with most situations in care work, it is important to understand what is normal for each individual you work with so you can identify any changes.
If you are working with an individual you do not know well or have never worked with before, the care or support plan will provide you with relevant information. You may also receive information from the handover process from your colleagues or the care coordinator.
Record and report on support for mental health in agreed ways.
We must always report on any changes to someone who is experiencing (or at risk from) suffering mental illness. There are risks if we do not do this. If you see any changes in a person, report them to your manager and the appropriate professionals.
Flip the cards for some examples…
You may be required to record conversations that you have had with a person and any responses to interventions that they may have had. For example, if they are using relaxation techniques.
You will be guided by the individual’s support plan. When recording conversations, always remember to record fact and not what you think someone meant. It is also important to record any changes in the person’s care and support plan.
Report progress too! This is vital so that the team responsible for the person’s treatment and support can see if the plans to help them recover are working.
Always seek advice when…
Advice can be sought from:
Well done! You have completed our eLearning for Mental Health Awareness.
Kung Fu Panda fans remember – there is no secret ingredient!
You can now return to the assessments and complete any outstanding tasks. Once you have completed your assessment, you can see and download your certificate.
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