MHFA

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses are based on evidence of what is best practice mental health first aid to support someone who has a mental health problem or is experiencing a mental health crisis. This evidence has been developed in partnership with the University of Melbourne, through developing Delphi method guidelines that cover a number of mental health problems, crises and in different contexts. All MHFA courses are then evaluated, using rigorous scientific methods, to ensure they are having a positive impact.
These evaluations consistently show that MHFA training is associated with improved knowledge of mental illnesses and their treatments, knowledge of appropriate first aid strategies, and confidence in providing first aid to individuals with mental illness, benefits which are maintained over time. Some studies have also shown improved mental health in those who attend the training, decreases in stigmatising attitudes and increases in the amount and type of support provided to others.

​Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Australia is committed to telling the stories of people with lived experiences of mental health problems.
MHFA courses are based on the expert consensus, of people with lived experience of mental health problems and mental health professionals.​View Andrew’s MHFA profile on this link.

The Mental Health First Aid Program has been recognised with a number of Australian and international awards, including the THeMHS Medal. It has been recognised in the UK as an example of radical efficiency and has been listed in the USA by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) on their National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP).

Learn to recognise common mental health problems, how to provide initial help to someone experiencing a mental health problem using a practical, evidence-based Action Plan, and how to respond in a crisis situation.
During the course, participants have the opportunity to practice new skills in a safe environment.
Note: This is an education course designed to teach people the skills to give first aid to others, it is not a therapy or support group.

People who attend Mental Health First Aid training can complete an online assessment to be accredited as a Mental Health First Aider.
The accreditation is valid for three years.

Mental Health First Aid Officers are appointed and supported to:​• Provide mental health first aid within their worksite• Escalate any matters in a prompt and appropriate fashion according to relevant organisational policy and procedures.​Just like appointing physical first aid officers, many organisations choose to appoint accredited Mental Health First Aiders to the role of Mental Health First Aid officer within the workplace.​Mental Health First Aid Officers are appointed and supported to:​• Provide mental health first aid within their worksite• Escalate any matters in a prompt and appropriate fashion according to relevant organisational policy and procedures.