Mental Health First Aid courses delivered across the District boost capacity and awareness
 

Since 2015, Sydney Local Health District’s Population Health team has delivered the nationally recognised Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program to strengthen knowledge and build grassroots capacity in our communities.  

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses are provided to community groups and not-for-profit organisations within the District’s catchment area. The nationally recognised program equips participants to recognise common mental health problems, provide initial help and connect people with professional support. Covering topics such as depression, anxiety, substance use, psychosis, suicidal thoughts and crisis situations – including panic attacks or traumatic events – it is designed for people who manage, lead or support others. While not a substitute for clinical training, MHFA builds practical, evidence-based skills that community members can use to support those around them. 

According to the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing (2020-2022), 43 per cent of Australians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime. Anxiety disorders are the most common, affecting 17 per cent of the population. 

Over the past decade, more than 80 courses have been delivered to community groups and not-for-profit organisations, with more than 1300 people completing the training. From January to September 2025 alone, 11 courses were held in English and Mandarin, with feedback showing they were highly valued. 

“I learnt a lot about mental health in this course. It was a good learning opportunity about how to respond and assist a person with mental health issues or in a crisis,” said one participant. 

Courses have also been tailored for specific communities. Arabic-speaking participants described the training as “extremely relevant” and “a real eye-opener”. 

In September, Riverwood Community Centre hosted a course for staff. Salma Taleb, Manager of Community, Youth, Family and Mental Health, said the training was a valuable reminder of the importance of boundaries and support. 

“The MHFA course helped staff understand what we need to do, what we can do and what we should do,” she said.  

“It develops skills to help ourselves and others, and to make clients feel that we are here to support them, not to judge.” 

The District’s MHFA instructors have seen first-hand how the training can change perspectives. 

“Many participants find that being able to talk about mental health is empowering.” said Wei Jiang, Health Promotion Officer. 

“In many cultures, there is still stigma around mental health. These courses help break down that stigma by giving people the skills and confidence to talk openly and support others in their communities.” 

For more information visit https://slhd.health.nsw.gov.au/population-health/healthy-living/healthy-mind