JCU Health Careers Expo

Mental Health Care Navigator Keeley Ryan had the pleasure of attending two careers' expos organised by James Cook University’s Central Queensland Centre for Rural and Remote Health. Students from Moranbah, Middlemount, and Dysart high schools attended the careers’ expo in Dysart on February 28 at the Dysart Community Centre, while students from Capella and Clermont high schools attended the one in Clermont at Clermont State High School on March 13. 

School students had an opportunity to engage with workers from each of the health disciplines in attendance to learn about what skills they might need to pursue careers in health. Keeley spoke to students about the entry pathway needed to work as a Mental Health Care Navigator and in other mental health roles. To help with their practical understanding, she helped students complete a short mood assessment to measure their stress levels. She also educated students on signs to look out for poor mental health in themselves and their friends, including signs that someone may be considering suicide. 

Keeley said that the most rewarding part of participating in these events was to provide guidance to students and hopefully inspire them to pursue a career in mental health care.