Talking with Sikira...

 

Why did you choose to study Mental Health Awareness?

I chose to study on the Mental Health Awareness course because I have realised the negative perception we have within the media aswell as in the BAME community. I want to be better informed of how to not only support individuals who may experience mental health issues but to also be better equipped in dispelling myths or negative perceptions of mental health within my local community.

What is something valuable you have taken away from the course?

The valuable thing that I have taken away from the course is positive information that can be forwarded on to individuals in letting them know it's okay to not to be okay and there is help out there for them. So to offer support without judgment. Also where to gain more information for mental health suffered that may be suffering in silence due to shame or fear. 

How do you plan to use this qualification?

I'm currently doing the Level 3 Supporting Teaching & Learning course. I would like to be able to combine my learning so far, and use it to assist with my new awareness of mental health, within the classroom, personally, and within my community.  There isn't enough/equal support for BAME children and adults, as I currently feel it is still underrepresented and still has negative stigmas attached. Although this has admittedly improved over the years, I feel there is still a long way to go. So I would love the opportunity to help support that change in any way possible. As slightly as that may even be.

To find out more about this course or to start your application, click here.

Thank you Sikira for sharing your experience with us!