Mental Health First Aid Aotearoa

This course is designed for adults who want to build practical confidence in supporting someone experiencing a mental health problem or crisis. It suits people in workplaces and communities who may notice early signs, need to respond appropriately, and want a clear framework for encouraging help without overstepping their role.

Workplaces are increasingly recognising the importance of supporting mental wellbeing and responding appropriately when someone may be experiencing distress or a mental health challenge. While Mental Health First Aid training is not specifically mandated, PCBUs are expected to manage risks to health and safety, including psychosocial risks. This training helps build confidence around early support, recognising warning signs, and responding appropriately in the workplace.

No previous mental health training is required to attend this course. Learners must be at least 18 years old.

The course runs over 2 days, allowing time to build practical skills in recognising mental health challenges, responding to crisis situations, and applying the ALGEE action plan.

The course covers common mental health challenges in Aotearoa New Zealand and how to provide initial support when someone may be struggling. Topics include anxiety, depression, psychosis, problematic substance use, and crisis situations such as panic attacks or suicidal thoughts, along with how to recognise early warning signs and guide someone towards appropriate help.

Yes, this course includes an online assessment. Completing it is part of the pathway to being accredited as a Mental Health First Aider through Te Pou for three years.

Learners who successfully complete the assessment are accredited as Mental Health First Aiders through Te Pou for three years.

No, this course does not include an NZQA unit standard. Its recognition sits with Te Pou’s Mental Health First Aid Aotearoa accreditation rather than NZQA credit-bearing assessment.

Yes, some parts of the course may feel emotionally challenging. This is because the training covers mental health crises and real-world situations, so learners should come prepared for serious but supportive discussion.

Yes, this course is available for both in-house and public delivery. In-house training can help organisations schedule Mental Health First Aid training around operational requirements while supporting shared understanding across teams.

For public face-to-face courses, catering is provided for morning tea and lunch. If you have specific dietary requirements (such as allergies, vegan, or gluten-free), please contact IMPAC at training@impac.co.nz at least two working days before training. Please note that dietary preferences cannot be accommodated.

This course is delivered by Maxine Bowring, an Accredited Instructor for the Mental Health First Aid Aotearoa programme. Maxine combines professional experience with lived experience of mental health challenges, helping create a supportive and practical learning environment where learners can build confidence applying the MHFA approach in real situations.

IMPAC delivers health and safety training nationwide across a wide range of industries, with a focus on practical, workplace-relevant learning and supportive delivery.

Pricing depends on the delivery method.

In-house: $5450 + GST for up to 12 persons, with additional persons charged at $349 + GST each (maximum of 16).

Public (face-to-face): $645+ GST per person.