Frequently asked questions

The accredited Mental Health First Aid course teaches you how to recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems, how to have a supportive conversation, how to respond in a crisis (such as suicidal thoughts or a panic attack), and how to guide someone toward professional help and other support.

Your Mental Health First Aider accreditation is valid for 3 years. After that you can complete a shorter refresher course to renew it for another 3 years.

Yes. Refreshers renew your accreditation for a further 3 years. If you completed a course with us, we’ll invite you to a refresher as your accreditation approaches expiry. You can also join the refresher waitlist so we email you when a local date opens.

Courses run with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 24 participants. Smaller groups keep the training interactive and give everyone room to take part.

Public course tickets are $300 standard, or $225 for NFP and concession attendees. Private group training starts from $195 per person — workplaces from $3,900 and NFPs/clubs from $2,900 (up to 15 people, then +$200/head).

We run public courses across the Riverland — Renmark, Berri, Loxton, Barmera, Waikerie, Mildura — and travel to your site for private group bookings. No metro travel required.

Yes. XL Training delivers Mental Health First Aid Australia’s accredited courses as a licensed instructor. On completion you receive the official 3-year Mental Health First Aider accreditation.

Just yourself and something to write with. We provide the official workbook, morning tea and your certificate. Wear comfortable clothes — it’s an interactive two days.

No — and that’s the whole point. Mental Health First Aid is designed for everyday people, not clinicians. Just like physical first aid teaches you to help until an ambulance arrives, this teaches you to support someone until professional help is available. No prior training or experience is needed.

We do cover serious topics, including suicide, honestly and directly — because avoiding them helps no one. But the course is delivered with care in a supportive small group, at a comfortable pace, with plenty of breaks. Many people find it reassuring rather than heavy, because for the first time they feel equipped rather than helpless. If anything comes up for you personally, there’s always time to talk.

Awareness sessions raise the topic; this course builds skills. Over two full days you learn and practise a structured action plan (ALGEE), work through real scenarios, and earn a nationally recognised, three-year accreditation. It’s the difference between hearing about first aid and actually being trained to do it.

For private group bookings we can often arrange the two days to suit your roster — for example two separate days a week apart, or across a weekend. Tell us what works when you enquire and we’ll do our best to accommodate it. Public courses run on the set dates listed on the site.

You’ll receive your Mental Health First Aider accreditation and keep the workbook as a reference. You’re always welcome to get in touch with questions, and we’ll remind you when it’s time to refresh your accreditation in around three years so your skills stay current.