Mental Health First Aid Training

One of our mission goals is to provide our residential communities and staff with care, support and enrichment in academic, cultural, personal, social and recreational matters.

Back in 2007, we understood that a way to foster a supportive and caring campus culture was to focus our attention on destigmatising mental illness – and that's when the Mental Health First Aid Training (MHFA) and safeTALK Suicide Alertness programs came into play.

About  the Mental Health First Aid Program

Many people know how to help with physical health issues, but fewer feel confident supporting someone with a mental health concern. MHFA helps bridge that gap by teaching participants how to:

• Recognise common mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and psychosis
• Respond appropriately in a crisis
• Offer support until professional help is available
• Reduce stigma and encourage early help-seeking

Betty Kitchener and Professor Tony Jorm developed the MHFA program in 2001 at the Centre for Mental Health Research at the Australian National University. In 2005, it moved to the ORYGEN Research Centre at the University of Melbourne. Since 2012, the MHFA program has been an independent not-for-profit company run by Mental Health First Aid Australia, a charity focused on health training and research.

Mental Health First Aid is the initial help given to someone 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 MHFA program has been found to be effective in improving mental health literacy, reducing stigma and increasing helping behaviours. 

Read more about the Mental Health First Aid program.

Our journey with the MHFA program

Since 2007, MHFA has been a core part of our training for Residential Support Team and Residential Life Staff and has helped foster a culture of care and understanding across our residences. In recognition of our commitment, Mental Health First Aid Australia has proudly accredited MRS as a Gold Skilled Workplace.