Mental Health First Aid
Using an evidence-based Action Plan, Mental Health First Aid training teaches participants the skills to recognise signs and symptoms of mental health problems, and to assist someone who might be developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis.
Around 1 in 5 Australian adults experience a common mental illness each year, however many people do not feel comfortable or prepared to offer support to someone they are concerned about.
MHFA course participants will learn how to recognise the signs and symptoms of someone who may be experiencing a mental health problem or crisis, and learn the skills to confidently offer help and support.
Research has shown that Mental Health First Aid training is consistent with:
- Increased mental health literacy
- Increased confidence in providing mental health first aid
- Decreased stigmatising attitudes
- Increased support provided to others
Please note: The courses currently being offered through the Richmond Institute are designed to teach adults how to support other adults.
Mental Health First Aid Australia is a national, not-for-profit health promotion charity, focussed on mental health training and research, and is guided by best practice and informed by lived experience. Since its development in 2000, MHFA Australia has been working towards a community where everyone has the first aid skills to support people with mental health problems.
The Mental Health First Aid Program has now evolved into a global movement. To date, over 4 million people worldwide have been trained, including over 900,000 Australians.
Mental Health First Aid courses are delivered by Accredited Mental Health First Aid Instructors across a variety of settings, including the general community, workplaces, secondary schools, youth groups and clubs.
To find out more about Mental Health First Aid Australia, and the variety of courses they offer, please click here.
COVID HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES:
SUPPORT AND CRISIS SERVICES:
- Lifeline: Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7) Text: 0477 13 11 14 (12pm – midnight AEST, 7 nights) Chat online: Crisis Chat (7pm– midnight AEST, 7 nights)
- Beyond Blue: Phone: 1300 22 4636 (24/7) Chat online: Online Chat
- Suicide Call Back Service: Phone on 1300 659 467
- Open Arms: Veterans Support Service – Phone 1800 011 046 (24/7)
- Kids Helpline: Phone 1800 551 800
- eHeadspace: Phone 1800 650 890
- Family Relationship Advice Line: Phone 1800 050 321
- Sexual Assault, Domestic or Family Violence and Abuse: Phone 1800 737 732
- Mensline: Phone 1300 78 99 78
- QLife: Phone 1800 184 527
After completing one of these MHFA courses, participants can complete an online Accreditation Assessment to become an Accredited Mental Health First Aider. This Certificate of Accreditation is valid for 3 years.
We welcome group MHFA training bookings. If you are interested in training up a number of people in your workplace or community, please register your interest and a member of our team will get back to you.
Step 1: Register now, or book your organisation in here.
Step 2: Richmond Institute staff will contact you for upcoming courses and information.
