Ursula Bach

Hi, my name is Ursula Bach. I am a doctoral student at the University of Auckland. As well as training to become a clinical psychologist, I am also completing my research thesis.

 

 

Between 2011 and 2013 I worked as a mental health support worker. I have also had experience in other voluntary mental health service organisations. It was through these experiences I became interested in the unique role 'mental health frontline staff' play within the mental health sector - particularly 'support staff'.

 

 

It has become apparent to me that the parameters, experiences, and definitions of the role are extremely variable across NZ and globally.

 

 

I am interested in training offered and the diversity of skills needed for this role as ‘frontline staff’. Unfortunately, not much is known about Mental Health Support Workers or their attitudes around suicide.

 

 

Mental health problems are one of the single biggest risk factors of suicide and NZ has a high suicide rate. Hence it is important to understand how Mental Health Support Workers understand and feel about dealing with suicidal clients.

 

My research aims to better understand how training can help Support Workers feel more confident and how attitudes on a political, organisational and individual level impact suicide intervention.

 

I think that suicide is one of those topics that is difficult to talk about due to significant taboos that exist around it.  These taboos can have the potential to influence multiple factors like personal attitudes and beliefs, how organisations structure training needs, government funding, and media reporting laws etc.

 

Mental Health frontline staff, such as Support Workers, are in a position where they are often likely to come face to face with clients who are suicidal on a daily basis. They might work in residential facilities or visit clients in their homes or communities. Support Workers make up the majority of all mental health professions in New Zealand.

 

I think it is important to know more about this large group of mental health workers, to provide them with a voice, and to acknowledge how we can further support them to support those most at risk of suicide.