Since its inception in 1930, the Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA) has been at the forefront of providing affordable and accessible mental health education and support services to the Australian community. Despite its longstanding commitment, the foundation receives only $81,000 in funding from the Victorian Government to assist its nationwide efforts. In light of this, the support of individuals and businesses becomes paramount in sustaining its crucial work.
The MHFA offers a comprehensive range of mental health services and programs tailored to the diverse needs of the Australian community, including Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities. These services encompass support groups, psychological counseling through the Wellness Hub clinic, multilingual webinars, Mental Health First Aid training, advocacy programs, awareness campaigns, and research initiatives.
One of the flagship programs of the MHFA is its multicultural engagement efforts, which aim to reach out to diverse communities across Australia through initiatives like the Let’s Talk: Mental Health campaign. By leveraging multicultural Attachés and Ambassadors, the foundation successfully educates and raises awareness about mental health within these communities.
The Wellness Hub psychology clinic stands as a beacon of support, having provided over 1500 affordable counseling appointments to clients of all ages. Operating on a sliding scale fee structure, the clinic ensures accessibility by offering sessions at just $20 per 50-minute session, or free for those in financial need. Moreover, with the advent of telehealth, the clinic has expanded its reach, making mental health support more accessible than ever.
Education plays a central role in the MHFA’s mission, with over 500,000 individuals benefiting annually from its mental health educational webinars and Mental Health First Aid training. These initiatives foster mental health literacy, equipping individuals with the tools to identify signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions and provide crucial support during crises.
The Foundation’s network of over 35 mental health support groups serves as a testament to its commitment to building a supportive community. From culture-specific groups like the Women’s Support Group and Multicultural Youth Support Group to the CALD LGBTIQA+ Support Group, these gatherings offer a safe space for individuals to connect, share experiences, and receive support.
Despite its impactful work, the MHFA relies heavily on individual donations and community contributions to sustain its services. The generosity of supporters enables the foundation to continue its vital work in promoting mental health and wellbeing across Australia.
In closing, the MHFA calls upon the Australian community to consider donating to support its mental health initiatives. Your contribution will not only make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals but also uphold the foundation’s legacy of empowering mental health for generations to come.
To donate and support the Mental Health Foundation Australia, please visit here.
Thank you for your support.
