The MHFA Program acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land, and pays our respect to Elders past, present and future.
Mental health first aid is the help provided to a person who is developing a mental health problem, or who is in a mental health crisis, until appropriate professional treatment is received or the crisis resolves. Mental health first aid strategies are taught in evidence-based training programs authored by Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Australia and conducted by MHFA Instructors across Australia.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health First Aid Course is designed as a 14 hour course, typically conducted in 6 modules; however the delivery format is flexible. This course teaches members of the public (18 years and over) how to assist an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander adult who is developing a mental health problem or in a mental health crisis.
What the course covers
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing
- Mental health problems in communities
- Mental health first aid strategies for working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Developing mental illnesses:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Gradual onset psychosis
- Substance misuse
Mental health crisis situations:
- Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
- Non-suicidal self-injury (sometimes called self-harm)
- Panic attacks
- Traumatic events
- Severe psychotic states
- Severe effects of drug or alcohol use
- Aggressive behaviours
More information about what Mental Health First Aid courses teach here.
How to find a course
MHFA does not centrally coordinate courses. Contact any of the AMHFA instructors listed on the Instructor page to arrange a course in your area. Instructors also advertise their courses at our course calendar. Most instructors are willing to travel but need expenses covered.
- Click here to view the list of instructors
- Click here to view the the course calendar
Who can attend a course?
Any interested adult can attend. Please note this course is not a therapy or support group, rather it is an education course to learn how to give first aid to others.
Cost
Your local instructor can inform you of their individual fees.
More Information
Download our information sheet for more details or read our help section for Frequently Asked Questions.