AMP has updated its mental health training program for staff and advisers, to aid them in speaking to customers and directing them to further help if needed.

The change coincides with Mental Health Week, which started yesterday.

The training module has been developed with mental health research group the Black Dog Institute. Originally for customer-facing staff only, it is now available to all staff and advisers.

Group Executive Insurance Megan Beer says broad education and understanding is key to addressing “a community issue”.

“With one in five people suffering from mental illness at any given time, we are committed to the role we play, not only as an insurer but as an employer and an advice partner,” she said.

AMP recently advocated for an education program funded by government and industry to raise awareness that customers who seek help for mental illness and are managing their conditions will not be excluded from obtaining insurance.

Last year mental health was AMP’s leading claim condition for women and ranked second for men.