The workshops, being run by Carer Assist, start on May 5 between 4.30pm and 7.30pm.

They’re being run by Isabelle Devos, the local carer advocate for Armidale, Uralla, Guyra, Glen Innes and Tenterfield.

Ms Devos is looking forward to being able to provide some support for carers, saying it was important to give them the tools to cope.

“When a family member or friend is supporting a person with a mental illness it can be a challenge on many levels,” Ms Devos said. 

“The purpose of the Carer Assist education program is to equip families and carers with knowledge about the illness and the system and to help them develop skills and ways of coping.”

The Assisting Families program will cover topics such as: an introduction to mental illness; 

symptoms and treatments for depression and bipolar disorder; and components for maintaining wellbeing. 

“Later in the year we will run a series about schizophrenia and psychosis,” Ms Devos said.

Carer Assist provides free support to mental health carers including assistance in navigating the mental health system; providing information across a wide range of topics; assisting the carer support group; or supporting families to better communicate with professionals. 

It also provides educational workshops.

The Assisting Families education programs are free – but bookings are essential and should be made before May 1. 

For bookings or inquiries, call Isabelle Devos on 6772 3211 (Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday) or email isabelle@carerassist. org.au