Careerforce Mental Health Advisors Cindy Mullens and Danny Fearon are giving free mental health support to learners enrolled in Careerforce programmes*.
The pilot, funded by Te Whatu Ora aims to cultivate a positive and supportive learning environment where learners feel empowered to seek confidential assistance for their mental health and wellbeing.
Recent research revealed that 30% or work-based learner participants reported dealing with mental health issues. (S. Bartlett, 2023).
Careerforce Mental Health Advisor, Cindy Mullens
“We found that there was a real need for learners who didn’t know how to access these services or support,” says Cindy.
“There are particular risk factors for some work-based learners.
“Financial pressure is a significant concern for some. They are trying to work full time, study, and support a family. Added financial pressure almost always leads into relationship issues and conflicts within relationships.
“In the health and wellbeing sector in particular, there can also be requirements to work long hours, perhaps because someone called in sick.
“Often people will become quite anxious, and not know how to engage or know what to do.”
Learners enrolled with Careerforce can talk to Cindy or Danny confidentially about their mental health when they need to. Support is provided via phone, text, email, Microsoft Teams, or in-person depending on their location.
A Registered nurse for 28 years, Cindy Mullens began her career in mental health and addictions. This shaped her professional path, teaching her the importance of authenticity and understanding life’s challenges.
“I firmly believe there is no health without mental health,” says Cindy. “I’m dedicated to helping others maintain their integrity while pursuing their academic goals. With a genuine approach, I prioritise building connections and resilience.”
Originally from the United States, Cindy has been in New Zealand for 15 years, and now lives in Dunedin.
Careerforce Mental Health Advisor, Danny Fearon
Danny Fearon has been a registered nurse for 34 years, specialising in paediatrics, palliative care and aged care. Danny has been a Careerforce Apprenticeship Advisor for the past eight years providing pastoral care and support to Level 4 Health and Wellbeing apprentices, including Careerforce’s Mental Health and Addiction apprenticeship.
“I recognise that there are stressors for some of these learners, especially around time frames,” says Danny.
“I believe we can make a significant difference and work towards a more supportive wellbeing route to success.”
In a recent Careerforce survey, one graduate stated, “I have found Careerforce to go above and beyond to help me, including offering free mental health support which I have used myself and found very helpful. It shows they care about the people, not just getting the work done.”
Careerforce learners who would like to access some extra support, can take the first step by visiting the webpage and completing a referral form. This pilot is funded until 20 December 2024.
Learners can also access a free counselling service from professional employee assistance provider Vitae. The Vitae confidential counselling service is available 24/7.
*Excluding Gateway programmes