International

Since the inception of the Mental Health First Aid program in 2000, our organisation has evolved into a global movement with more than 67,000 MHFA Instructors delivering our courses in 29 countries, working together to increase our global reach and impact. More than 7 million people have been trained worldwide as Mental Health First Aiders.

Leading cause of disability

Mental illness is among the ten leading causes of disability in both developed and developing countries

Leading cause of death

Suicide is a leading cause of death internationally

Reduced global life expectancy

Premature death as a result of severe mental health conditions affects global life expectancy by as much as two decades

A Global Leader in Mental Health Education

It is evident that the world faces constant community crises, and public health and well-being problems that cross geographic boundaries. Mental illness touches every nation and international population, and even with our global diversity there are common experiences and knowledge that can be shared to support mental health education on early intervention.

Our programs draw on international best evidence, and our population focus has enabled training to be adapted to different cultures and languages with high efficacy. The role for Mental Health First Aid International – with the support of its head operations in Australia – is to work in collaboration with organisations around the world to offer high quality training that can have positive impacts in both developed and developing nations.

From its origins as a program first developed by Professor Tony Jorm and Betty Kitchener AM in 2001, Mental Health First Aid is a unique example of an Australian not-for-profit sector innovation that is making a difference in diverse communities around the world. It is a truly global initiative, with unparalleled reach in 29 countries. We strive to continue this growth and collaboration.

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