Jeanette Vannapraseuth knows better than most that finding purpose in challenging times is easier said than done.
As someone who lives with a physical disability and uses a wheelchair, Jeanette suffered with depression after having to retire early from her corporate job due to her health.
Thankfully, Jeanette saw the signs of her mental health flailing and took action before it was able to overtake her.
“I had aways been a carer for my daughter and was well aware of how challenging the mental sector can be and it made sense to try and learn more and get involved in mental health as a volunteer,” Jeanette said.
“One day when I was telling my story in a public forum, I was approached to do volunteer work for a local mental health organisation and have been volunteering ever since.”
Once Jeanette began her volunteering journey, she wanted to know more about the mental health sector – best approaches to treatment and understanding where the gaps are. So, she enrolled in a Certificate IV in Mental Health at TAFE Gippsland.
“I have supported someone close to me through many mental health challenges and I wanted to become more aware and more educated in this space,” Jeanette said.
“I have the time now to study so I embraced the challenge. The highlight of the course for me has been attending face-to-face classes and being able to participate in classroom conversations, listen to the experiences of others, some of whom were already working in the sector as well as hearing the stories of those with lived experiences. My teacher was an amazing wealth of knowledge and know I learned way more being in a classroom setting than I would ever have online.”
Jeanette’s journey in the industry won’t cease once she’s completed her course. Already mentally committed to continue volunteering in this space with the newfound knowledge gained throughout her studies, Jeanette is also considering becoming a volunteer with Lifeline.
She said the course has given her the confidence to pursue opportunities that she may not otherwise have considered herself qualified for.
“Courses like this are really important for increasing the knowledge of those entering the sector, exposing us to different, evidence-based treatments and outcomes,” Jeanette said.
“Understanding more about the different conditions that fall under the mental health umbrella is imperative for those wanting to work in the sector, so we avoid making too many assumptions about things we do not understand.
“For anyone considering studying mental health, I would say do not waste time thinking about it. Just get out there and do it. You won’t regret it and you will leave with a better understanding of what is involved working in the sector.”
Certificate IV In Mental Health student Jeanette Vannapraseuth.
TAFE Gippsland mental health educator Lisa Cecil said the successful delivery of the Certificate IV In Mental Health comes down to its comprehensive curriculum and support from experienced instructors and industry partners.
“Graduates of the Certificate IV in Mental Health are not just leaving with a qualification but are stepping into the field as compassionate mental health advocates,” Lisa said.
“They have demonstrated the capacity to provide empathetic, client-centred care while balancing the complexities of mental health challenges, always striving to promote well-being, recovery, and empowerment for those in their care. It has been an absolute pleasure to teach this course over the last five years.
"Our program also places a strong emphasis on culturally sensitive practices, equipping learners with the knowledge to work inclusively with diverse populations, ensuring that support services are delivered with respect for the unique needs of all individuals."
For more information about the mental health courses offered at TAFE Gippsland, visit our website.