Investigating factors that impact on the uptake of Mental Health First Aid Australia's Conversations About Gambling course: a qualitative study engaging stakeholder perspectives

Objective: Gambling is increasingly identified as a public health concern as it carries a risk of harm for the person who gambles, friends and family, and the broader community. Mental Health First Aid (R) (MHFA) Australia's Conversations About Gambling course is an early intervention program that teaches members of the public how to support someone experiencing harm from their gambling. Although the course improves participants mental health literacy and reduces stigma, its uptake has wavered compared to other similar MHFA courses, prompting the present study to investigate enablers and barriers to its implementation.Methods: Online interviews and one focus group were conducted with 12 participants (six licenced MHFA instructors and six individuals from key partner organisations). Course implementation and uptake were explored.Results: Thematic analysis identified a positive regard for the course among participants. Key themes related to implementation included: course-specific, implementation and process, and structural factors.Discussion: This qualitative study identified the critical role of strong collaborative relationships with established industry providers for successful program uptake. It also pointed to the need for additional subject-specific consultation to identify a format and delivery method suited for the unique societal factors that impact course implementation.