Energy Resources of Australia (ERA)  has been recognised as a 'Silver' Skilled Workplace by Mental Health First Aid Australia, an acknowledgment of ERA's ongoing commitment to ensure the health and safety of all staff.

Over the past 18 months, ERA has trained more than 10 per cent of its workforce in Mental Health First Aid through a 2-day mental health first aid course run by Mental Health First Aid Australia as well as increasing access to mental health experts and educational resources at Ranger mine and the Darwin corporate office. 

The Mental Health First Aid training teaches staff how to offer initial support to adults who are developing a mental health problem, experiencing a worsening of an existing mental health problem or in a mental health crisis, until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves.

Staff learn about the signs and symptoms of the common and disabling mental health problems, how to provide initial help, where and how to get professional help, what sort of help has been shown by research to be effective, and how to provide first aid in a crisis situation.

ERA staff and their families also have free access to an Employee Assistance Program delivered by EASA which provides a full range of psychological and development services. EASA employ wide range of specialists including consultants, trainers, psychologists, social workers, counsellors, coaches and mediators and regularly visit Ranger mine to offer confidential appointments with staff and their families.

During September, ERA will deliver additional activities and access to new resources as part of the RUOK? Day event, a national day of action dedicated to reminding everyone that any day is the day to ask, “Are you ok?”.
The initiative is a suicide prevention charity aimed at inspiring Australians to have regular, meaningful conversations every day of the year to help anyone struggling with life.

Note:
Information and education resources regarding mental health support can be found by contacting the following organisations:

• RUOK www.ruok.org.au
• Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636 (24/7)
• Lifeline – 13 11 14
• Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
• Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800
• GriefLine – 1300 845 745