February Health Calendar 2024

Looking after our Apprentices 

Our apprentices are heavily impacted by the factors that are affecting our industry. On a lower wage and balancing college work with their training, apprentices are vulnerable to suffering with their mental health, whilst combatting the tribulations of the financial climate and the pressures faced in their early career. Together, we can work to create a safe space for those new to our industry and learning their trade.

Click the banner below to sign up or scan the QR code:

Mental Health Awareness Training

The EIC are so proud to bring our industry apprentices 15 mental health awareness training modules for FREE. The course has been designed to give:
An understanding of what mental health is and how to challenge the stigma
A basic knowledge of some common mental health issues
An introduction to looking after your own mental health and maintaining wellbeing
Confidence to support someone in distress or who may be experiencing a mental health issue

Apprentices who complete this course will be able to:
Define mental health and understand its importance
Recognise the signs of mental health challenges in themselves and their peers
Access resources for seeking help and support if needed
Contribute to a stigma-free environment that prioritises mental health in the workplace
Understand the basics of self-care for maintaining mental well-being

If you are interested in accessing any of the training courses, you can sign up through the online platform - https://eictrainingco.org/login/index.php.  For businesses looking to invest in training packages, contact the EIC directly This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Addiction

Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) and gambing addictions are increasing among apprentices and is a prressing concern. It's important that we educate our industry on risks, where to find support and how to cope utilising positive coping strategies. Support may be offered to those who are experiencing addiction through the creation of a safe and non-judgemental environment that promotes the use of signposting to organisations that can provide specific and tailored support to the presenting issues. signposts: Al-Anon, AA, NA, GA, GamCare, GamAware etc.

Eating Disorders

What is an eating disorder? An eating disorder is a medical diagnosis that is based on eating patterns. Not every eating problem will be diagnosed as an eating disorder. Define bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, OSFED, ARFID, Pica,, rumination disorder and diabulimia - https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/eating-problems/types-of-eating-disorders & https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/about-eating-disorders/types/arfid

Self-Harm

Whilst apprentices are at high risk of self-harming, anyone can be affected and may self-harm. Self-harm is a way in which some people cope with very difficult feelings, painful memories or overwhelming situations. In some cases, self-harm has been described as a way to express something too challenging to put into words, to turn thoughts into something visible, to release the psychological pain and to feel in control. Reasons that someone may start self-harming include: pressures at work or school, bullying, money concerns, bereavement, relationship breakdowns, health problems, increase in stress and low self-esteem. https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-harm/helping-yourself-now/ - How to help yourself if you are self-harming. how to help someone who is self-harming - https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-harm/for-friends-and-family/ . https://www.nshn.co.uk/