Mental Health First Aid Training

Akin to our expectation of physical first aid, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help given to someone where there is concern that they may be developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis.

The two-day accredited MHFA course teaches participants about common mental health issues and has been found to increase their knowledge, awareness and skills. Upon completion of the course, some organisations have introduced Mental Health First Aid Officers, in the same way they have First Aid Officers.

Workplace scenarios, exercises and video training materials are used to assist learning so that participants complete the program with greater confidence and ability to help. Simple communication and engagement strategies, based on international evidence, are taught that allow the Mental Health First Aider to provide support and information, encourage the person to seek appropriate professional help, and promote the use of other supports.

All participants receive a copy of the MHFA Manual and a Certificate of Completion. Participants can also complete an online competency assessment following the course and will receive a 3-year accreditation.

Mental health conditions are estimated to cost Australian businesses $11 billion annually. A recent study conducted by PWC estimates that every dollar spent on creating a Mentally Healthy Workplace will create a return on investment of $2.30. Not to mention the positive impact these initiatives will have on individuals, employee engagement and workplace culture.

Refresher courses allow people who have previously completed a Mental Health First Aid course to refresh their knowledge and skills. For people who are Accredited MHFAiders, refresher courses offer an opportunity to extend their accreditation for a further three years.

The content of the MHFA refresher course is based on guidelines developed through the expert consensus of people with lived experience of mental health problems and professionals who work in the field of Mental Illness. Sessions are conducted face-to-face.

Benefits from the session include:

• Refresh knowledge of common mental problems including presenting signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety and substance use disorder
• Learn the 3 key actions for helping someone in crisis
• Work through complex mental health first aid interactions
• Practice mental health first aid conversation skills
• Review resources available to support people experiencing mental health problems

Duration: 4 hours

Participants: We recommend 8-20 participants per session. There is no pre-learning or pre-reading required.

If you are interested in running a Mental Health First Aid course for your employees, Bodycare can tailor a program to suit your organisation’s needs. To register your interest, click the button below.