Why Become a Mental Health First Aider?

Mental health is something that affects all of us, either directly or indirectly, in our day-to-day lives. Mental health contributes to high levels of sickness and job loss. Approximately 97% of employees reported that their mental well-being was negatively impacted by COVID-19.

A Mental Health First Aider, or in short MHFA, is someone who has been trained to offer preliminary assistance to other people in times of poor mental health. Although they are not therapists, they can identify warning signs, deliver immediate assistance, and refer individuals to professional help.

So, why become a mental health first aider? It is sad that there is still stigma and misconceptions around this area, and so it is good that we have people who have been trained in organisations or communities that can give mental support.

This blog post will assist you with anything you want to know about a mental health first aider.  Stick with us for more. 

What is a Mental Health First Aider?

A Mental Health First Aider or MHFA is an individual who has undergone specific training to identify mental health problems. They can be of immediate assistance and also help people find professionals in case of emergencies.

Think of it as a physical first aider, but for mental well-being. They are: 

• Not a therapist or counsellor
• Not a doctor or psychiatrist
• A colleague, friend, or peer 

Working as a mental health first aider, you can listen and reassure, create a safer setting in dealing with anxiety, depression, stress or crisis among people.

Why is Mental Health First Aid Important?

Because the world is getting ahead at a more rapid rate, we are trying to catch up with the world. In all these running habits, we forget to take care of our mental health.

Mental health plays a critical role in the everyday aspects of life, including in relationships, productivity, and general well-being.

Sadly, talking about mental health issues, particularly in work environments or in organisations, is a challenge that many individuals face. It is important to establish an open atmosphere in which people will feel free to share their experiences in order to create support.

When addressing the problem of mental health, a swift and compassionate response can:

• Reduce the severity of a crisis.
• Encourage early professional help.
• Create a safer and more supportive environment.

Why Become a Mental Health First Aider? 

There are a variety of strong motives to become a mental health first aider. Let me share some of the key reasons to become a mental health first aider. 

Help Those Around You

As a mental health first aider, you have more chances to become a reliable source of support for the people around you. This can be a colleague, friend or family member, but you’ll at least be one whom they can approach during difficult times.

Build Stronger Teams

In organisations, where employees are aware that someone can listen to them and support their mental health issues, it creates an atmosphere where everybody feels comfortable expressing their battles. 

Develop Valuable Skills

You will be able to identify a person undergoing mental duress and their ways to react. These skills not only assist other people but also improve your own personal interactions and relationships.

Personal Growth

The experience of becoming one also helps you learn important facts about your own mental health as well as that of other persons. 

You will be able to understand emotional issues more effectively and, consequently, develop a higher level of self-awareness and a deeper understanding of the issues encountered by others.

Career Benefits

Mental health first aid certification on your resume shows your leadership skills, care and dedication towards well-being at the workplace. 

Employers eagerly seek candidates with a proactive attitude to mental health, as they are regarded as the people concerned about a healthy working environment.

Who should become a Mental Health First Aider?

The short answer to who should become a mental health first aider is anyone who cares about others and wants to support mental well-being. 

Typically, the best individuals who have the best outcome as a mental health first aider are:

• Line managers and supervisors
• HR professionals
• Teachers, coaches, and youth workers
• Team leaders in any setting
• Employees who want to volunteer
• People looking to specialise in wellbeing or mental health support.

How to Become a Mental Health First Aider?

It’s easier than most people think. Here’s how to do it in the UK:

Choose a Certified Course

At High Skills Training, you will find numerous CPD-accredited mental health first aid courses that are expertly crafted by professionals. This can be a great start to a learning journey to become a mental health first aider. 

Complete the Training

High Skills Training’s online mental health first aid training courses typically take 1–2 days to complete. You’ll learn about mental health conditions, spotting warning signs, crisis management, confidentiality, and making referrals.

Get Your Certificate

After completing any mental health first aid course from High Skills Training, you will get a CPD certificate. This shows you’re trained and ready.

Tell your Employer or Team

Your team or employer should know that you have completed your training on mental health first aid. This will make you credible for the role of mental health first aider. 

Keep Learning and Stay Updated

It’s a good idea to take refresher courses on mental health every couple of years to keep your skills sharp. You can find helpful resources to stay informed and updated.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Mental Health First Aider?

Being a mental health aid first aider isn’t about fixing everything, but you do make a real impact. Let’s see the key responsibilities of a mental health first aider. 

Recognise the Signs of Mental Distress or Crisis

Identifying that someone is emotionally or psychologically distressed is one of your several key duties as a mental health first aider.

This may include observing a shift in behaviour, mood swings, withdrawing into themselves or feeling depressed.

Listen Without Judgement and Offer Reassurance

It is important to be able to create a safe spot for an individual in distress. This involves actually listening to their problems without prejudice or coming to conclusions.

Your empathy will help you comfort them and know that it is not alone and that their emotions are not untrue.

Encourage Professional Help When Needed

Although you can offer support, it should be noted that professional help is required when the need arises. Sensibly advising someone to contact a mental health practitioner can be a crucial moment in their recovery journey. 

Know How to Respond in an Emergency

In cases where an individual is undergoing a crisis, either a panic attack or suicidal feelings, knowing how to intervene will be very important in taming the situation.

This will involve the use of calming methods, making sure that the person is safe physically at present, and the need to seek emergency help.

Protect Confidentiality 

Trust must also be built, and one of the factors that is very critical to establishing trust is the assurance of the confidentiality of information that is disclosed to you. Keeping a tight secret is an inbuilt part of your job.

Mental Health First Aider Jobs

Mental health first aid is gaining popularity in many workplaces across the UK. While it’s often a voluntary role, like being a physical first aider, some industries are taking it a step further. 

Mental Health First Aid Coordinator

According to Glassdoor, MHFA Instructors in the UK earn between £16,127 and £24,663 annually, with an average annual salary of around £20,000.

Mental Health Support Worker

The average salary is around £21,500 per year, ranging from £19,543 to £24,285 depending on experience and location. 

Let’s see, where you’ll find mental health first aider Roles:

• Large corporations
• Schools and universities
• Charities and social enterprises
• NHS and healthcare settings
• Sports organisations. 

FAQ

Final Thoughts

Mental health challenges are a part of life, but we can work together to reduce stigma and silence around them. So, why become a Mental Health First Aider? 

By doing this, you’ll learn how to support those around you and create an environment where everyone feels safe and valued.

Whether you’re aiming to make a positive impact in the workplace, at school, or within your local community, becoming a mental health first aider is an invaluable skill that can truly benefit those around you. 

This blog post has shed light on the importance of mental health awareness and the vital role that first aiders play in providing support.