What’s Your Why?

To celebrate 25 years of Mental Health First Aid, we invite each of our MHFAiders, Instructors, partners and providers to share a short 30-60 second video sharing your ‘why’. Why did you decide to become an MHFAider, an instructor, a provider, or a partner? Why are you passionate about MHFA?

What is Your Why?
From Humble Beginnings

From humble beginnings

The idea came about during a simple walk with their dog when they realized there was no mental health equivalent of physical first aid. From that moment, they developed a training program to help people support others experiencing mental health problems or crises that would soon be delivered to a small group in Canberra.

To a global movement

Global Movement Map

Mental Health For All

As a dedicated social worker, I have always looked beyond the obvious when it comes to social issues. In my work and daily life, I witnessed firsthand the reluctance, misconceptions, and stigma surrounding mental health. The data—on prevalence and the treatment gap—made it clear: a vast population needed care but either didn’t know where to go or feared seeking help.

Mental health awareness was almost nonexistent, often clouded by myths and biases. Education wasn’t just necessary—it was urgent for creating lasting change. That’s why the Mental Health First Aid program was the perfect fit, and I feel privileged to have brought it to India. I have no doubt that we are making a real difference!

Mental Health Awareness

The difference we are making in INDIA

Through MHFA training, we have empowered individuals and organizations to create mentally healthier workplaces and communities. Our impact includes:

  • Partnered with 60+ leading corporate firms to integrate mental health support at work.
  • Trained 4000+ MHFaiders to recognize and respond to mental health challenges.
  • Led impactful events & campaigns that sparked vital workplace conversations.
  • Inspired individuals & organizations to prioritize mental well-being.

Together, we’re building a mentally healthier society—let’s keep the momentum going in 2025!

Impact in India

How to get involved

For this milestone year, we’re inviting the entire MHFA community to join us in celebrating and continuing the movement. Get involved, share your story, and help us ensure that every conversation matters.

Step 1: Share your "why"

Submit a video or text sharing why you’re passionate to be part of MHFA India

Step 2: Spread the support

Share to someone who needs MHFA

25 years of empowering

Mental Health Literacy

For a quarter of a century, MHFA has helped shape a world where mental health conversations are normalized, supported, encouraged – and informed by lived experience.

Conversations

Helping individuals experiencing mental health problems to feel supported, heard, and understood.

Early Intervention

Ensuring mental health problems are recognised and addressed before they escalate. 

Mental health literacy

Giving people the knowledge and confidence to understand and talk openly about mental health.

Voices of lived experience

Ensuring those with lived experience and experts inform our programs.

Population mental health

Ensuring mental health problems are recognised and addressed before they escalate. 

Global communities

Adapting MHFA to local contexts in workplaces, schools, and healthcare settings worldwide.

Hear from our MHFAiders

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF

Mental Health First Aid - Live Event

On February 14, we were delighted to gather online with our MHFAiders, Instructors, providers, and international partners to celebrate 25 years of Mental Health First Aid.

In the below recording of our live event, you will hear from people who have made the Mental Health First Aid’s journey possible.

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