Mental health first aid training

Dates for our Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Courses for 2025 have been scheduled: 

5 & 12 March
11 & 18 June
30 July & 6 August
8 & 15 October
5 & 12 November

Registration for the March course will open in January 2025.

To find out more information about individual MHFA courses and to register follow this link: Education & Events | Australian Veterinary Association

About

Working in the veterinary industry can be rewarding but it can also be challenging and stressful at times. This accredited course will increase your knowledge and confidence in helping loved ones, clients and colleagues with mental health challenges. 

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental health first aid is the help provided to a person who is developing a mental health problem or who is experiencing a mental health crisis. Like physical first aid, mental health first aid is given until the person receives professional help or until the crisis resolves.

Course format: 

During 2025 the AVA will continue to provide MHFA training in the blended online format.

Part A - e-learning module

This will take approximately 6-8 hours to complete, and you can start straight away using the MHFA online training manual available once your registration is confirmed.  

Part B - Virtual workshop training

This component of the training has been tailor made for the veterinary profession by Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Australia and is facilitated by Andrew Thompson from Provet/Crampton Consulting. The training is strictly limited to 12 participants and will be delivered in two online sessions of 2.5 hours each session.

What’s covered in the course?

• Explore mental health problems such as depression, anxiety problems, psychosis and substance misuse problems.
• Participants will then learn the practical, evidence-based communication techniques to reach out to those in need.
• Take-home resources including a hard copy manual.

Registration to this course is non-refundable and non-transferable so please ensure you are able to complete the e-learning component by the due date and are also available to attend BOTH workshops.