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Nih Kaartdijin Mia

Understanding With Compassion

Mental health first aid, designed by and for Aboriginal people.

Based in Port Hedland, Nih Kaartdijin Mia (NKM) is a 100% Aboriginal-owned business that delivers culturally safe mental health first aid training for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.

Mental health first aid training

All courses are delivered by accredited Indigenous trainers who can provide insights into dealing with mental health from a culturally appropriate understanding. Business owner and lead facilitator, Valerie Riley is a proud Aboriginal woman with strong family ties to the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

A focus on better mental health in the mining sector.

NKM specialises in working with the FIFO sector of the mining industry throughout the Pilbara. On mine sites, this could include anyone from the cleaning and catering staff to project managers and site supervisors. We are proud to work with a number of WA mining companies who are committed to improving the mental health of their staff.

We also provide high quality training to corporate clients and the general public.

"In Australia, around 1 in 5 people aged 16–85 experience a mental disorder each year, but many go undiagnosed or untreated."

"In Australia, 1 in 6 people (16.7%) aged 16–85 have experienced serious thoughts about taking their own life. Additionally, 1 in 14 (7.4%) have made a suicide plan, and 1 in 20 (4.9%) have attempted suicide in their lifetime."

"In Australia, approximately 1 in 5 individuals aged 16–85 experience a mental health condition annually. In the mining industry, suicide rates are notably higher, with the construction sector—including mining—reporting suicide rates 80% above the general working population, equating to about 190 workers annually. "

In Western Australia, particularly in the Pilbara region, the mining sector employs a significant portion of the workforce. A study surveying 2,550 WA mine workers found that over one-third reported high levels of burnout.

These statistics highlight the critical need for targeted mental health support and suicide prevention strategies within the mining industry, especially in regions like the Pilbara.

Culturally-safe knowledge and skills.

Everyone can benefit from learning practical knowledge and skills, and gaining the confidence to support others during challenging times of mental health and wellbeing.
NKM provides mental health first aid training in a culturally safe way, providing the basic steps to those who are attending a mental health crisis.

Nih Kaartdijin Mia means ‘Come and listen to our knowledge and learn it for home.’ It also means ‘Our healing place.’

Get in touch

Find out more about our upcoming workshops or get in touch to discuss your particular requirements with us.

Testimonials

What our clients have to say

"This course was very well presented and I personally found it very beneficial"

"A great couple of days and very insightful. Thanks Valerie and we look forward to the next one."

"A huge shoutout to the incredible Nih Kaartijin Mia - Valerie Riley and Rosie Kickett for their guidance and expertise throughout the course."

“I wholeheartedly recommend Valerie to any organisation seeking to deepen their understanding of mental health within Aboriginal communities. Her contribution is invaluable, and her presence is a catalyst for meaningful change and professional growth.”

"I'm grateful for this opportunity to learn and grow, and I can't wait to make a positive impact!"