Organisations are increasingly recognising the value of training staff as Mental Health First Aiders to help spot signs of mental health issues and provide initial support. At time of writing, there are 800,000 employees in the UK with some form of mental health training.
What exactly is a Mental Health First Aider, and how can you or your employees become one? This guide will answer these questions and show why it’s crucial for businesses to address mental health challenges.
What is Mental Health First Aid?
Mental Health First Aid is a structured programme that teaches individuals how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges. The role of a Mental Health First Aider is similar to that of a physical first aider, but instead of treating physical injuries, they provide initial support for mental health concerns.
What does a Mental Health First Aider do?
A Mental Health First Aider’s main role is to be a point of contact for anyone experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress. Their responsibilities can include:
Listening without judgement
Offering support and information
Encouraging appropriate professional help
Offering first line assistance in crisis situations
Importantly, they are not therapists. They are trained to guide individuals toward appropriate resources and professional support. Their work often makes a profound difference in reducing stigma and promoting an environment where mental health is openly discussed.
How to Become a Mental Health First Aider
Becoming a Mental Health First Aider typically involves completing an accredited course. These courses cover a wide range of mental health topics, such as stress, depression, anxiety, and how to handle crisis situations, including suicidal thoughts or panic attacks. You’ll gain practical skills and knowledge, making you a valuable resource in any setting. Once you’ve completed the training, you’ll be able to act as a Mental Health First Aider within your organisation or community.
What makes a good Mental Health First Aider?
Good Mental Health First Aiders possess several key qualities, including:
empathy and active listening skills
calmness under pressure
an approachable and non-judgmental attitude
commitment to confidentiality
the ability to communicate effectively
These qualities ensure that individuals feel comfortable seeking support from Mental Health First Aiders when they need it most.
How many Mental Health First Aiders should a business have?
There is no one size fits all answer to this question, as it largely depends on the size of your organisation and the nature of the work. However, as a general rule, larger businesses should aim to have at least one Mental Health First Aider per 50 employees. Smaller companies may only need one or two, but the important thing is ensuring they are visible and easily accessible.
Why become a Mental Health First Aider?
Mental health affects every aspect of a person’s life, including their performance at work. Training as a Mental Health First Aider allows you to offer immediate, practical help to someone in need. For employers, having a team of Mental Health First Aiders not only creates a supportive workplace but also demonstrates a proactive commitment to employee wellbeing.
Mental Health First Aider qualifications
To become a certified Mental Health First Aider, you need to complete an official training course that typically lasts one to two days. This qualification is valid for several years, but ongoing learning and refreshers are encouraged to ensure that your knowledge stays up to date.
The link between money and mental health
Financial stress is one of the leading causes of mental health issues. Employers should consider extending their support beyond just mental health training by offering MONEY FIRST AID training too. Money First Aiders, like Mental Health First Aiders, are trained to offer practical support and guidance to individuals facing financial difficulties, helping them manage stress related to money problems. As financial stress is a known trigger for mental health challenges, tackling both areas together can have a significant positive impact on employee wellbeing.
By considering both Mental Health First Aid and MONEY FIRST AID training, employers can provide comprehensive support to their staff, encouraging a happier, healthier, and more productive workplace.
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