North and West MEP calls for first aid courses for mental health
Galway Bay fm newsroom - A North and West MEP is calling on the government to introduce Mental Health First Aid courses nationwide.
MEP Jim Higgins says the initiative would spread awareness of mental health issues and enable people to recognise the signs of depression.
He's calling on the Minister of State with responsibilty for mental health, Kathleen Lynch, to set up a nationwide series of 6 or 12-hour training courses.
Similar schemes have already been implemented in the UK and in Australia.
Speaking to FYI Galway, MEP Higgins says current suicide trends are worrying, and early intervention is essential.