Mental health first aid
The University of Waikato is now offering 'Mental Health First Aid', under the host for Aotearoa, Te Pou.
At this time, we are delivering this internally only. If you are an external individual or organisation, please visit Te Pou's website to find an alternative provider.
"Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses are a suite of internationally acclaimed and evidence-based, accredited training programmes that empower and equip individuals with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to support a friend, family member or co-worker experiencing a mental health challenge. MHFA teaches participants how to assist people who are developing a mental health problem, experiencing a worsening of an existing mental health problem or in a mental health crisis, until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves."
Topics covered are: depression, anxiety, psychosis, substance misuse and mental health crisis topics of suicidal thoughts and behaviours, panic attacks, severe psychotic states, severe effects from alcohol or drug misuse and aggressive behaviour.
To register for upcoming courses in both Hamilton and Tauranga campuses please complete the Registration – Mental Health First Aid form.
For more information email mentalhealthfirstaid@waikato.ac.nz
Visit Mental Health First Aid for more information about the MHFA international course.
Register for upcoming courses
Feedback from previous participants
"[facilitators] were very knowledgeable and clearly passionate about what they do. They made it fun and lighthearted, even though the subject matter was heavy. Would recommend"
"It allows us to know what to do in situations that are uncomfortable for most people but learning to handle it in a professional and appropriate manner was helpful"
"Loved the very clear framework- its applicable in so many situations"
"Really dynamic and engaging. Would recommend anyone in a student-facing role be given the opportunity to attend"
"I feel more empowered for both my work and personal life"
"Very relevant as pastoral care is a part of my role"
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, to become a Mental Health First Aider you are required to complete both days of the Mental Health First Aid workshop. (total of 12 hours)
The workshop fee is $50 per person. The payment covers the workshop materials and contributes to the cost of refreshments, administration and other course coordination. We aim to keep the cost low so that we can upskill as many staff members as possible.
Your accreditation expires 3 years from the date of the completed online accreditation assessment.
We ask that you prioritize this workshop where possible, but we understand that life happens! If something has come up that is beyond your control, please let us know and we can discuss the best way to move forward.
Absolutely. Please provide us with a minimum of 7 days notice of this change. Please keep in mind that if you advise us of the change within less than 7 days of the original workshop you registered for, that you will have to pay for both workshop places.
If you have pre-booked spots, that’s great! However, we ask that you identify those who have an interest in the course to attend first and foremost. This is to ensure commitment to the place in the workshop and that the completion of the workshop will lead to MHFA champions.
The aim is to have one person in every household in NZ as a Mental Health First Aider. This begins with delivering to those with an interest in the content, to become champions for MHFA to then encourage others to attend.
As mentioned, life happens, and in these cases we are happy to discuss the possibility of allowing another keen team member to take your place.
A lot of preparation goes on behind the scenes to organise these workshops so as a rule, the cost is non-refundable unless exceptional circumstances which will be dealt with case-by-case.
No. The training materials provided are to support the overall learnings. One cannot be used without the other!
No. To keep costs down for our participants, we do not provide lunch. Coffee and tea will be available.
These workshops must be attended in person for the value of learning and participant safety
Student Health Information
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General Practice Clinic
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Student Health Service fees
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After-hours urgent care
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International students health insurance and support
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Complaints procedure
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Meningococcal vaccines
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Mental health first aid
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