Why Mental Health First Aid Matters.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. But while most of us feel confident treating a sprained ankle or calling for help in an emergency, fewer know what to do when someone is struggling with their mental health.
That’s where Mental Health First Aid comes in.
What Is Mental Health First Aid?
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help provided to a person who is experiencing a mental health crisis or developing a mental health problem. This support is given until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves.
Just like physical first aid, MHFA is about early intervention and basic support, not diagnosis or treatment. It gives everyday people the tools to recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and suicidal thoughts, and respond with confidence, empathy, and care.
Why It Matters
- 1 in 5 Australians experiences a mental illness in any given year.
- Many people don’t seek help because of stigma or a lack of understanding from those around them.
- A simple conversation, started at the right time, in the right way, can make all the difference.
Mental Health First Aid training helps reduce stigma, builds supportive communities, and ensures more people get the help they need, sooner.
What You’ll Learn
If you choose to take a Mental Health First Aid course, you’ll be able to:
- Recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health issues in adults.
- Use an evidence-based action plan to initiate a mental health first aid conversation.
- Asses for a range of crisis situations and offer initial support.
- Understand the impact of mental illnesses, risk factors, treatments and supports available.
- Apply self-care practices as a mental health first aider.
The Power of Being Prepared
Whether you’re a friend, colleague, teacher, team leader, or volunteer, your role matters. People often reach out to those they trust first. By completing MHFA training, you become part of a growing movement of Australians who are prepared to respond to mental health challenges with compassion, confidence, and knowledge.
How to Get Involved
St John Queensland offer accredited and non-accredited Mental Health First Aid courses both in-person and online. You can book a course today by visiting www.stjohnqld.com.au
