Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help given to someone experiencing a mental health problem before professional health is obtained.

MHFA certified training is aimed at a range of people who may come into contact with those experiencing mental health difficulties and crises. They include health workers, teachers, front line public sector, voluntary and community sector workers as well as members of the general public.

It is 12 hours of evidence-based training, teaching participants how to recognise the symptoms of mental health problems e.g. depression, anxiety and psychosis.

• • • Each course is delivered by two MHFA instructors, usually over two consecutive days to a maximum of 20 delegates
    • Participants are expected to attend all sessions of the training.
    • A certificate and resource manual with supporting information is provided when the course is complete.
  • • Topics covered include:
      • What is meant by mental health/mental ill health?
      • Dealing with crisis situations such as suicidal behaviour, self harm, panic attacks and acute psychotic behaviour
      • Recognising the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems including depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis and substance use disorders
      • Where and how to get help
      • Self help strategies

The aims of Mental Health First Aid are:

·         To enhance understanding of mental health problems and how it can impact on individuals and society.

·         To develop skill, motivation, knowledge and confidence in offering help to those with symptoms of mental illness.

·         To guide towards appropriate professional help.

 

Target age group	18+
Training necessary?	Yes
Session time	12 hours (2 days or 4 evenings)
Teaching notes available?	Yes
Information on sources of support?	Yes
Interactive?	Yes
Supplementary materials available?	Yes