Articles
Read our articles to learn practical tips for promoting positive mental health practices and supporting someone who may be experiencing a mental health problem.
Before the hello: how support can start with everyday moments for LGBTIQA+ people
For many LGBTIQA+ people, decisions about who to open up to – about their mental health, their identity, or anything at all – are made long before the conversation starts. We spoke to MHFAiders who share a common reflection: safer conversations are often built through small moments of curiosity, care and non-judgemental mindsets.
5 tips for supportive and inclusive mental health first aid conversations
November is a time when men’s mental health can take centre stage, thanks to campaigns like Movember that help to get men talking. With men making up 75% of suicides each year in Australia, and only around one in three men with a mental disorder seeking professional help, it’s important that we continue raising awareness and encouraging support.
Checking in and speaking up for men’s mental health
November is a time when men’s mental health can take centre stage, thanks to campaigns like Movember that help to get men talking. With men making up 75% of suicides each year in Australia, and only around one in three men with a mental disorder seeking professional help, it’s important that we continue raising awareness and encouraging support.
7 ways to support someone experiencing gambling problems
A gambling problem is a mental health problem that can sometimes accompany other mental health problems – like depression, anxiety and substance use problems. People gamble for many reasons – for fun, excitement, social connection or the chance to win money. But...
MHFA Day 2025 – A celebration of conversations that matter
This year, on Tuesday 19 August, we celebrated the first official Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Day – a new day of action and celebration. For the first time, Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAiders), Instructors and providers united on the same day to shine a light...
Understanding suicide and how to approach the conversation
What is suicide? Suicide is when someone chooses to end their life. It can affect anyone, no matter their background, age, or situation. Some groups, like Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQA+ people, and veterans, may be at higher risk. Who...
MHFAiders share 5 key tips on supporting someone from a CALD community
In a world that can sometimes feel uncertain or overwhelming, supporting someone through a mental health problem can offer comfort and hope. But what if their experience of mental health – and the way they talk about it – is shaped by cultural beliefs different...
Keeping the focus – when to share and when to listen
When supporting someone through a mental health problem, it’s natural to want to connect through shared experiences. We might say, ‘I’ve been through something similar,’ or ‘I know exactly how that feels,’ with the best of intentions – to reassure, to show empathy...
Taking care of yourself during the holidays
When we board an airplane, we are encouraged to put on our own oxygen mask before helping others. The thinking behind this is simple – when we look after ourselves, we’re in a better position to support those around us. The same applies during the holiday season....
7 ways to support someone over the holidays
While the holiday period can be a time of joy and togetherness, it can also be a difficult time. Someone you know might be missing a loved one, working, feeling lonely, facing financial pressure, managing relationship challenges or experiencing heightened stress....
Six tips to keep someone comfortable in a mental health conversation
When it comes to supporting someone going through a difficult time, preparing for the conversation can help you feel confident in your approach. But what about once someone has opened up? How do we keep the conversation going and help them feel comfortable with the uncomfortable?
Our latest article shares six practical tips.
A veteran’s path to recovery through his community
After serving over two decades in the Australian Army, Craig’s transition to civilian life was far from easy. Craig’s final rotation in Afghanistan came with significant losses and, on returning to Australia, he struggled to find work. The psychological toll of his...
