St John is aiming to fill a gap by launching an online mental health first aid course.
The course, launched on Monday, intends to educate New Zealanders about their wellbeing and reduce stigma.
St John national programme and development manager Gabrielle Wildbore says it's a good place to start.
"With our response to COVID-19 we realise there are many that are feeling even more isolated and lonely," Wildbore told Newshub.
She said the course has been catered to the country's diverse population. It aims to provide participants with skills to respond to a mental health crisis and to respond appropriately.
"St John is committed to improving the health outcomes of all New Zealanders; being able to offer this course online means we can equip a greater number of New Zealanders with the confidence and skills to safely manage the initial support of their friends, family, and colleagues and guide them to seeking professional help if they need it.
"What's unique about the online course is that participants can learn at their own pace, whenever and wherever they like."
St John launched the initiative of mental health courses in 2018 but until now it was only available in a classroom setting.
"The new course is made up of easy-to-consume modules and can be completed online in approximately five hours and it includes the same high-quality content as the classroom-based course," Wildbore said.
