Support Act has announced its first First Nations Mental Health First Aid training program, specifically for First Nations musicians, managers, crew and music workers, and non-Indigenous people working with them.

Held in conjunction with Makeshift, the nationally accredited training for individuals and teams teaches people how to effectively recognise and respond to mental health issues, provide initial help using a practical, evidence-based Action Plan; respond in a mental health crisis situation and seek appropriate professional help.

The free, online workshops will be held on Wednesday 13 April and Wednesday 11 May from 10am-3pm (AEST) and will be hosted by mental health advocate and former professional sportsman, Deon Bird.

The charity has also announced its next Yarning Strong mental health webinar, specifically for First Nations people working in music, will feature iconic singer/songwriter Uncle Archie Roach as a panelist alongside life coach and wellbeing facilitator, Yolanda Finette, and host Mitch Tambo.

Held on Thursday 28 April at 7.30pm (AEST), Yarning Strong – Finding Your Identity In Music will touch on the challenges of navigating music whilst also dealing with the impacts of the stolen generation, what are some of the turning points, what are the highlights and how First Nations people can overcome these struggles from a mental health perspective. 

Cerisa Grant, Support Act Community Engagement & Social Worker, explains: “We are so thrilled to have such great programs and events coming up this year to support our First Nations music community. After the rough two years we’ve had in this industry, maintaining positive mental health is more important than ever.”

For further information and to register for both events, visit supportact.org.au/news-events/