In marking World Mental Health Day, Minister for Workforce Participation Dr Sharman Stone today reminded employees and employers about the free Mental Health First Aid Kit.

"About one in five Australian adults will experience some form of common mental health problem in any one year," Minister Stone said. "So it's likely employers will employ someone with a mental health problem reasonably frequently."

The Mental Health First Aid in the Workplace e-learning course has been developed to give employers and managers, employees and their co-workers a greater understanding of mental illness and how people with mental illness can be supported in the workplace and the wider community.

"It's unfortunate that, because of the stigma that is often associated with mental health issues, people who have a problem are often reluctant to ask for help," Minister Stone said.

"Just as traditional first aid teaches the basic steps to take when dealing with common injuries and illnesses, this course provides practical advice and training in identifying common mental health symptoms and responses that can help support the person in need.

"The CD identifies the basic steps anyone can take to support a client or work colleague with a mental illness."

The course is a joint effort between the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and the Mental Health Council of Australia.

To get a copy of the Mental Health kit visit www.jobaccess.gov.au  or phone 1800 464 800.