Building mental health first aid skills in Tasmania
St John Tasmania is expanding its training offering with the introduction of Standard Mental Health First Aid, helping more Tasmanians develop the skills and confidence to support someone experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis.
Developed by Mental Health First Aid Australia, the evidence-based course teaches adults how to recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health problems, start a supportive conversation and provide initial support until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves.
The first St John Tasmania Standard Mental Health First Aid course will be held at our Moonah training centre on 14 and 15 September 2026.
What is Mental Health First Aid?
Mental Health First Aid is designed to equip people with the knowledge, skills and confidence to respond when another adult may be experiencing a mental health problem or crisis.
In much the same way that physical first aid provides the skills to respond when someone is injured or becomes unwell, Mental Health First Aid provides a practical framework for offering initial support when someone is experiencing a mental health problem.
The Mental Health First Aid program was developed in Australia in 2000 and has since grown into a global movement, with training now delivered in more than 50 countries and around nine million people trained worldwide.
What do you learn in a Standard Mental Health First Aid course?
The 12-hour Standard Mental Health First Aid course uses a practical, evidence-based action plan to teach participants how to approach and support another adult they are concerned about.
Participants learn how to:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health problems in adults
- start a Mental Health First Aid conversation
- understand barriers to seeking help and how these may be overcome
- assess and respond to a range of crisis situations
- provide initial support and information
- encourage appropriate professional help and other supports
- understand common mental health problems, risk factors and available treatments and supports
- apply self-care practices as a Mental Health First Aider.
The course covers situations involving depression, anxiety, psychosis, substance use problems, suicidal thoughts and behaviours, panic attacks, non-suicidal self-injury and traumatic events.
Who can attend Mental Health First Aid training?
Standard Mental Health First Aid is suitable for adults aged 18 and over and can be undertaken by individuals, workplaces, volunteer organisations and community groups.
You don't need to work in health or have previous mental health training to attend.
The skills can be used to support a friend, family member, colleague or another adult in your community.
For workplaces, Mental Health First Aid training can also help build the capability of managers and staff to recognise and respond when a colleague may be experiencing a mental health problem or crisis.
Can I become an Accredited Mental Health First Aider?
Yes. After completing the Standard Mental Health First Aid course, participants can undertake a short assessment to become an Accredited Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider).
Mental Health First Aid Australia accreditation is valid for three years.
Mental Health First Aid training in Hobart
St John Tasmania's first Standard Mental Health First Aid course will be delivered face-to-face by a **Licensed Mental Health First Aid Instructor** at our Moonah training centre.
Dates: 14 & 15 September 2026
Location: St John Tasmania, Moonah
Duration: Two days
Whether you want to feel better prepared to support a colleague, friend, family member or someone in your community, the course provides practical skills for conversations that can sometimes be difficult to start.
