Mental Health First Aid

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help provided to a person developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. First aid is given until appropriate professional treatment is received or until the crisis resolves. The application form on the right is for non-UWS staff. UWS Staff should apply through MyCareer Online. 

Why should I take the course?

About one in five Australians will experience a mental illness, and most of us will experience a mental health problem at some time in our lives. By participating in the MHFA course you will learn to recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health problems, first aid strategies for dealing with mental health crises and where to get help.

» Does the course work? Take a look at testimonials, survey results and research.

What does the course involve?

The course takes 12 hours to complete and is offered  in 3 modes of delivery at UWS to suit your work schedule. The course is available to all UWS staff.

This course will build upon your current knowledge. You will learn first aid skills for mental health crisis situations and gain the ability to recognise the early stages of mental health problems. On completion of the course you will receive a manual and a certificate of attendance.

Various teaching methods are incorporated in the delivery which makes this course interactive and experiential.

» Course content - what you'll be learning [PDF, 81Kb] (opens in a new window)
 

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First aid guidelines for mental health

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health problem, there is some great information about how you can help yourself or them. MHFA has developed a series of first aid guidelines, which are listed below:

• Depression (opens in a new window) guidelines and article
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviours (opens in a new window) guidlines and article
• Psychosis (opens in a new window) guidelines and article
• Panic attacks (opens in a new window) guidelines and article
• Non-suicidal self injury (opens in a new window) guidelines and article
• Adult trauma guidelines (opens in a new window)
• Child trauma guidelines (opens in a new window)
• Eating disorders (opens in a new window) guidelines and article
• Problem drinking guidelines (opens in a new window)
• Problem drug use guidelines (opens in a new window)
• Problem cannabis use guidelines (opens in a new window)

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