Mental Health First Aid Summit Marks 25 Years of Training

The 2025 Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Summit in Philadelphia celebrated 25 years of educating individuals on how to support mental health globally. This milestone event brought together hundreds of professionals, supporters, instructors, and coordinators to reflect on the achievements and discuss future directions for mental wellbeing.

MHFA began with a single course launched in Canberra, Australia, in 2000. Today, the program has trained over 8 million individuals worldwide, equipping them with the skills to assist others during mental health crises. Tramaine EL-Amin, vice president of MHFA, kicked off the summit with a keynote address highlighting the organization’s enduring mission despite ongoing changes in the mental health landscape. She emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “Mental Health First Aid is a commitment to our communities that we’ll be there for each other.”

During a panel discussion, Professor Tony Jorm, cofounder of MHFA International, shared the origins of the program. He recounted a conversation with his wife during a dog walk in 1997, questioning why first aid courses did not include mental health crisis training. This conversation led to the creation of MHFA, which aimed to provide evidence-based support methods. Although initial research was limited, the founders established international guidelines to improve mental health assistance.

Looking to the future, MHFA leaders Dr. Jakqui Barnfield and Krystian Seibert outlined ambitious plans to expand the program and reach underserved areas. They shared strategies for cultivating awareness, fostering positive attitudes, and taking actionable steps to inspire others.

The summit also included a vibrant appreciation reception, where attendees enjoyed music, food, and shared stories of their impact on communities. Participants contributed to the MHFA Impact Wall, showcasing their achievements in promoting mental health awareness.

A highlight of the event was the MHFA Summit Impact Awards ceremony, which recognized organizations and individuals who have excelled in spreading MHFA training. Notable honorees included the Mental Health Association in New York State and the Colorado Behavioral Healthcare Council. Professor Jorm and Betty Kitchener received a Lifetime Achievement Award, acknowledging their foundational work in establishing MHFA.

Liz Reardon, a National Trainer since 2008, shared her journey and the challenges she faced in her first year. Her story illustrated the supportive community that MHFA fosters and the transformative impact of the program on both trainers and participants.

The 2025 MHFA Summit served as a reminder of the importance of mental health support and the collective efforts of individuals dedicated to making a difference. As the organization prepares for its next chapter, attendees left inspired to continue their work in mental health advocacy. The next MHFA Summit is scheduled for April 26, 2026, in Denver.