CIT welcomes launch of federal initiative promoting mental health in children

CIT is pleased to welcome the Hon Minister Mark Butler MP Minister for Mental Health & Ageing to its Reid Campus tomorrow as he launches the Australian Government's Response Ability, an initiative designed to improve the mental health and wellbeing of children. 

As a vocational institution with 500 students training in Children's Services, CIT is an ideal venue for the launch. Teachers who will be using the resource are looking forward to attending an event that highlights the important contribution early childhood professionals can have in the social and emotional development of children and young people.

Director of CIT's Centre for Health, Community and Wellbeing, Kathy Korsch, says the Commonwealth initiative will focus on mental health promotion, prevention and early intervention, and suicide prevention in children and young people, all of which is vital.

"The early years have a considerable influence on the development of children, as well as their mental health and wellbeing throughout life. That's why CIT staff are pleased to support a resource that seeks to embed mental health and wellbeing principles into the preparation of early childhood workers," Ms Korsch said.

"As we all are aware, mental health issues have a significant impact on children, families and the community. To help improve outcomes for young Australians we need to understand the risk factors associated with mental health, promote strategies for protection and support children if difficulties do arise."

Response Ability will provide professional support to help tertiary educators to integrate mental health and wellbeing into their courses. CIT Children's Services staff will participate along with students in workshops held by the Hunter Institute of Mental Health in the coming months.

WHAT: National launch of Response Ability

WHEN: 11.30am, Tuesday, March 29

WHERE: Restaurant at CIT, CIT Reid Campus, Constitution Avenue, Reid.