Standard Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) in Sydney
Empowering Adults to Support Others Facing Mental Health Challenges
Mental health concerns are more common than we think. Learn how to offer real support through our Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course.
According to the World Health Organization, one in four individuals will face mental health challenges during their lifetime.
In Australia, this trend aligns with worldwide figures, with about 20% of Australians experiencing mental health issues annually.
Given the likelihood that someone we know—whether a friend, family member, or colleague—is dealing with mental health challenges, there is a clear need for enhanced mental health awareness and the development of intervention skills.
The Standard Mental Health First Aid course is designed to provide the crucial skills needed to offer initial support to adults in mental health crises, serving as a bridge to professional help.
Endorsed by Suicide Prevention Australia, this program is recognized as a safe, high-quality, and effective approach to suicide prevention.
About the Program
The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course is an evidence-based program designed to develop practical skills for immediate and effective intervention in mental health crises. Developed by mental health experts and those with firsthand experience, the course enhances participants’ knowledge, confidence, and readiness to respond to mental health challenges. Proven effective and globally recognized, it has trained over 6 million people in 25 countries, demonstrating its widespread impact and reliability.
Format and Duration
This course is offered in a face-to-face format and consists of two consecutive days, each featuring 6-hour sessions.
Course Topics
Participants will gain first aid skills applicable to a wide array of mental health conditions, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety Disorders
- Psychosis
- Substance Abuse
- Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors
- Panic Attacks
- Self-Harm
- Responses to Traumatic Events
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Recognize various mental health conditions and their symptoms.
- Apply an action plan to effectively support individuals in mental health crises.
- Understand the obstacles to seeking help and how to encourage individuals to seek treatment.
- Manage a variety of urgent mental health situations with confidence.
At the end of the course, a certificate of completion is available to all participants who attend both sessions.
For those seeking official accreditation as a Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider), a three-year certification is granted upon the successful completion of a brief assessment at the course’s conclusion.
Suitability
This course is suitable for:
- Individuals seeking to support their community or loved ones.
- Professionals across all sectors, especially beneficial for HR personnel.
- Volunteers and members of community organizations.
- Any adult aged 18 and above looking to make a difference.
Facilitator Background
Dr. Olga Lucia Gamboa Arana is a cognitive neuroscientist, psychotherapist, coach, and mindfulness teacher.
As a MHFA-trained and Licensed Instructor, she brings her expertise and knowledge to each session. Olga Lucia’s teaching style is characterized by openness, directness, collaboration, and practicality, ensuring that participants in the MHFA course receive a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.
Mental Health First Aid in Sydney - Schedule (2025)
Duration: 2 days (x 6 hours)
Dates:
Saturday 17 May 2025
Saturday 24 May 2025
Time: 9:30 pm – 5 pm
Venue: Level 1, 303 Marrickville Road Marrickville (Marrickville Town Hall, Sydney Fringe Offices)
Price:
$183 AUD (includes course materials and processing fee)
Facilitators:
Clayton Hamilton
Dr. Olga-Lucia Gamboa
Organised by:
Clayton Hamilton
Sponsored by:
Sydney Fringe Incorporated
How to Pay and Register
Via Stripe:
Click on this Link to pay securely through Stripe.Via PayID:
Send payment to hola@eqness.com.Via Direct Debit:
Contact us at hola@eqness.com for Direct Debit details.
When paying via PayID or Direct Debit, please include the reference:
Your name + ‘MHFA’ to help us identify your payment.
After payment, email us at hola@eqness.com to confirm your registration.
Fees include:
- 12-hour course
- Mental Health First Aid manual
- A three-year MHFAider certification upon passing the end-of-course assessment (see note above)
Acknowledgement
Special thanks to Clayton Hamilton for organising this event and making it possible to deliver the course in such an accessible format.
We also extend our sincere thanks to Sydney Fringe Incorporated for generously sponsoring the venue for this course. Their support helps keep the course fee affordable and accessible to more members of our community.
If you would like to support Sydney Fringe and their dedication to the arts and community wellbeing, please consider making a donation:
Cancelation/Refund Policy
Participants are eligible for a full refund if they cancel their enrollment more than 15 days before the program’s start date. Please note that all refunds are subject to a small processing fee to cover administrative costs.
To cancel your enrollment and request a refund, please contact us with your registration details.
Get in Touch
For more details or to register, feel free to connect via email or phone. Alternatively, you can use the form below to send us your inquiries directly. We look forward to assisting you and will respond as promptly as possible.
Service Inquiry Form
Please fill out the form below with your details and inquiry. We aim to respond to all inquiries within one business day.