In 2000
Initiated in
Australia
The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program was originally developed in Australia in 2000 by Betty Kitchener, and Professor Anthony Jorm, a mental health researcher. Based on the research conducted with mental health professionals, advocates and educators they designed the MHFA program focused on the core principles of providing early intervention, increasing mental health literacy, reducing stigma, and promoting early help-seeking behaviors.
The program aimed at training members of the public, including family members, friends, and colleagues, to recognize the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems, offer appropriate support, and guide individuals to professional help when needed.
Today, the MHFA program is widely recognized as a valuable tool for increasing mental health literacy, promoting early intervention, and reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues. It continues to evolve and be implemented in diverse communities around the world, with the aim of building a society that is more supportive and understanding of mental health challenges.
Mental Health First Aid International is the only authorising body for licensing MHFA programs to organisations in various countries. MHFA International is an organization that works to promote and support the implementation of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) programs globally. It serves as a coordinating body for MHFA programs in different countries, fostering collaboration, sharing best practices, and providing resources and guidance for program implementation.
One of the key roles of MHFA International is to ensure fidelity to the core principles and content of the MHFA program while allowing for cultural and contextual adaptations. The organization collaborates with national program coordinators to ensure that MHFA training aligns with local mental health systems, resources, and cultural sensitivities.
Initiated in
Australia
countries Adopted
and delivered in
Accredited MHFA
Instructors
people trained
worldwide
In 2017, MHFA™ India became a Licensed Provider of Mental Health First Aid training authorized by MHFA International, Australia.
MHFA™ India aims to contribute towards a society where mental health conversation, supportive actions and help-seeking are normalised and encouraged. Based in Chennai, MHFA™ India works with organisations, institutions, and Mental Health First Aid® instructors across India. MHFA India is the national body responsible for the implementation and coordination of the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program in India. It is a part of the global MHFA network and operates under the guidance and support of MHFA International.
MHFA India works to promote mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and enhance the skills of individuals to provide initial support to those experiencing mental health issues. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including mental health professionals, government agencies, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and community groups, to implement MHFA training across the country.
Through education and quality awareness we can reduce stigma, and bring positive attitudes towards mental health among the public.
Measure the impact of MHFA and advocate for better mental health development through research and scientific data.
When you train with MHFA, we are there with you all the way to guide towards building a mental health supportive system.