Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a workshop for students and peer educators that provides an in-depth knowledge about how to recognise when a friend or colleague might be struggling, how to reach out and have a conversation, and where to refer a student should they need support.
MHFA training is a two-day commitment, and therefore is not for everyone, but we also offer trainings that might be more suitable.
Types of MHFA training available at UNSW
- Standard MHFA: In-person, 2-day workshop, (9:30am - 4.30pm per session). This is predominantly delivered across consecutive weeks (i.e., two consecutive Wednesdays) and is scheduled in conjunction with the broader university trimester timetable.
- Standard Refresher Course: This is available for those wishing to update their knowledge and maintain their MHFA accreditation. This is a single day workshop (9:30-2:30pm) and is only offered once per trimester by the Health Promotion Unit (HPU).
- Customised MHFA: Upon request and at the discretion of HPU, alternative training formats (i.e. online) and course types can be offered to meet the needs of specific UNSW cohorts within the HPU remit. This is offered on a case-by-case basis. For groups looking to access MHFA in this manner, they should contact HPU directly to discuss via [email protected].
Who should do MHFA?
UNSW student leaders, peer educators and those holding casual staff positions are encouraged to complete the MHFA and to join the UNSW Mental Health Network.
To help you decide if this is the right course for you, we’ve also created the UNSW Student Mental Health Training Framework to help support your decision, which includes other student training workshops.
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UNSW Student Mental Health Training Framework |
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What's the cost?
UNSW heavily subsidies the cost of MHFA training for its students and student-supporting staff. The current cost is $75 for a UNSW student.
It is at HPU discretion to waive fees should financial difficulties be a barrier to access. Please contact the UNSW Health Promotion Unit ([email protected]) to discuss fee waivers.
How do I register?
Multiple dates are available throughout the year. Select one of the available events on Humanitix to register your spot!
Completed MHFA in the past?
Take our Standard MHFA Refresher course instead!
If you are within 3 years of becoming initially accredited, you can complete the Refresher course which gives an additional 3 years of accreditation. The course is a half-day in-person workshop with no pre-learning.
We recommend you complete the Refresher course 2.5 to 3 years after completing your first Mental Health First Aid course.
If you have completed a Refresher course in the past, you cannot complete a second Refresher course. You will need to attend the full MHFA course again to maintain accreditation. Please check with MHFA Australia before registering if you are unsure about your eligibility.
Key Contacts
All questions relating to MHFA training courses specific to UNSW, customised MHFA offerings and accessibility requirements/reasonable adjustments should be directed to the UNSW Health Promotion Unit via [email protected].
For all queries relating to MHFA accreditation, MHFA course types, technical issues, eligibility for refreshers, contact MHFA Australia.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +61 3 9079 0200
Web: https://www.mhfa.com.au/
See related training and workshops
How to Help a Friend
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Recognise & Respond
A subsidised Suicide Prevention training for UNSW students and staff.
This Way Up
A free course to boost your wellbeing and reduce your stress levels.