Workshops aim to

CARERS of people with a mental illness will have the opportunity to learn new skills to help them deal with the challenges of every day life at an up coming series of free workshops.
Carer, therapist and counsellor Jo Buchanan, who has run similar workshops around Victoria, will lead sessions.
Ms Buchanan said the workshops were suitable for carers in various circumstances including those caring for a family member with a mental illness, the elderly or teenagers caring for a parent.
Ms Buchanan shares from her experiences as a carer for members of her family who have lived with mental illnesses.
She helped her sister who suffered from schizophrenia and later her nephew who also suffered from the condition.
“I looked after my son, Miles, for 16 years, he suffered from clinical depression but he is much better now,” she said.
Miles, an accomplished actor who worked in television and theatre, is now studing philosophy and music at university.
Ms Buchanan said she was happy to be involved in the workshops.
“In the 1970s and 1980s when I was caring for my family members there was nothing to help me,” she said.
The workshops give carers practical tools to help them cope with their responsibilities. Activities include learning about writing and journaling as well as use of music.
Ms Buchanan said many carers are on their own and don’t have personal support.
“Many feel anger and also suffer from the stigma of being a carer for someone with a mental illness,” she said.
Ms Buchanan said tools such as writing gave the carer a way to de-brief.
“We also laugh a lot, and share our experiences. It is about helping the carers to care for themselves,” she said.
Ms Buchanan has written two books about her experiences as a carer.
The second book, Copping it Sweet, is designed as a handbook for carers.
Two one-day workshops will be held in Beaconsfield on Saturday 24 February and Saturday 10 March from 11am to 4pm with lunch provided.
Ms Buchanan said having a second workshop enabled participants to return and share their progress at using skills learnt in the first workshop.
To enquire or to register to attend the workshops contact Peter O’Neill at ERMHA on 9706 7388.