What is Mental Health First Aid?

What is Mental Health First Aid?
Mental Health First Aid is the help provided to a person developing a mental health problem or in a mental health crisis. The first aid is given until appropriate professional treatment is received or until the crisis resolves.
The Mental Health First Aid course developed in 2000, Betty Kitchener and Professor Tony Jorm. Its aim was to improve the mental health literacy of members of the Australian community.
The 12 hour MHFA course is now disseminated nationally and internationally. The Program includes a 5-day Instructor Training Course to accredit suitable candidates to become MHFA Instructors who deliver the 12-hour MHFA course to their communities. This 12-hour course is designed to give members of the public some skills to help someone developing a mental health problem or in a mental health crisis situation. The philosophy behind the course is that mental health crises, such as suicidal and self-harming actions, may be avoided through early intervention with people developing mental disorders. If crises do arise, then members of the public can take action to reduce the harms that could result.
Participants of the 12-hour MHFA course receive a course manual and a certificate at the completion of the course. Those who have completed the course have been very positive about the knowledge and skills they have acquired.
Find out more about this course by following the link