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Increasing the number of rural and Aboriginal mental health first responders in rural and remote communities to improve local access to support and care

The Challenge

There is a shortage of mental health professionals in rural communities reduces access to appropriate care for people experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal ideation.  Mental health distress left undetected and unsupported can lead to chronic mental health issues and increase the chance of risk and time for recovery.  The Mental Health First Responders program is a globally recognised and certified program endorsed by the Mental Health Foundation Australia.



Theory of Change


Providing rural community members with a simple and effective skill set to support people experiencing mental and emotional distress will improve outcomes for rural people with suicidal ideation.



Anticipated Outcomes

Short-Intermediate Term

  1. Number of Mental Health First Responders trained

  2. Satisfaction with the quality of training.

  3. Self-reported confidence in dealing with a person experiencing a mental health crisis.

Long Term

Reduction in the prevalance of mental illness in rural and remote communities.

Progress

Training

-
Number of Mental Health First Responders trained

Quality

-
Satisfaction with the quality of training.

Health Literacy

-
Self-reported confidence in dealing with a person experiencing a mental health crisis.
LAST UPDATED: 

15 April 2024

NOTES:

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Contact

Cassie Talbot, Program Manager, Healthy Minds (0422 407 915)

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