In a recent article on the role of pharmacists in mental health services, community pharmacist Karalyn Huxhagen encouraged pharmacy staff to undertake MHFA. “A pharmacist is a trusted member of the community and we are available often when the GP/mental health care team are not as easy to access. We can provide support, empathy and guidance", said Karalyn.
Funding boost for Namatjira Haven Drug and Alcohol Healing Centre to be used to train local staff in Aboriginal MHFA to provide assistance to indigenous people with mental health issues in Casino, Richmond Valley, Kyogle and district and Tweed Heads.
As part of AFL Richmond Football Club’s commitment to health and wellbeing, players, coaches and staff attended Mental Health First Aid training during the pre-season, conducted by facilitators from Mental Health Education Group.
The MHFA Australia team celebrated, surprised and thanked Betty during a special party held at the Melbourne Zoo (an appropriate setting to finally meet the real Algee).
We are excited to announce a newly launched program to our suite of blended courses (online + face-to-face), MHFA in the Pharmacy.
MHFA Australia and specifically the teen MHFA Program were fortunate to receive a generous $10,000 donation, from Jenny Chantry and Mike McKay.
The 4th Edition of our 12-hour Standard and 14-hour Youth MHFA Courses have just been launched. Given our courses are research based, it is imperative that we continue to update them with the latest information. We have provided a summary of the main changes across both course types.
500,000 people have taken a MHFA course in Australia and 2 million across the world. A celebration of these milestones to be held before the middle of this year. Stay tuned for details.
MHFA Program founder Betty Kitchener AM has made the decision to step down from her role as CEO for MHFA Australia. Former Deputy CEO Nataly Bovopoulos has been appointed Acting CEO. Fortunately for the MHFA community, both nationally and internationally, Betty has not left behind her life's work. Betty is currently a consultant leading the development of the MHFA for the Older Person Program.
Betty Kitchener AM and Professor Tony Jorm, co-founders of Mental Health First Aid, attended the UNSW's Australian Mental Health Prize event. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull awarded the inaugural Australian Mental Health Prize to Kim Ryan. As we mentioned, Betty was one of seven finalists. Congratulations to Kim and thank you for your advocacy on behalf of mental health nurses.