What to do when a mental health conversation doesn’t go to plan
Holding a mental health conversation is a bit like learning to ride a bicycle. At first, you may need extra training to give you the skills you need. You may wobble just a little at your first approach. Over time, confidence and experience can build. But even with...
Unspoken clues someone might benefit from a mental health first aid conversation
The signs and symptoms that point to someone developing or experiencing a mental health problem are not always overt. There are usually subtle signs, clues or behavioural changes that can allude to a need for support, connection or someone to talk to. The amount of...
Considerations when providing mental health first aid to others
Data released by the ABS suggest that there has never been a better time to either learn or refresh your mental health first aid conversation skills. The release of the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing 2021 [1]) indicates that 3.4 million Australians aged...
How to talk about suicide – your words matter
Suicide is a tragic and largely preventable cause of death. Sadly, it is still a leading cause of death in Australia across many age groups, impacting people from all walks of life. Despite this, it can be helpful to keep in mind that most people who have suicidal...
Exploring the MHFA Action Plan
Whether we are at home, work, school or out in our communities, we may notice a change in someone’s mood, behaviour, interactions or the way they are talking. These signs can alert us to the fact that a person is experiencing symptoms of a mental health...
