Level 2 First Aid for Mental Health

Covering:

• What is first aid for mental health
• Identifying mental health conditions
• Providing advice and starting a conversation
• Stress
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Psychosis
• Eating Disorders
• Suicide
• Self harm
• Substance misuse
• Action plan for first aid for mental health
• Mental health in the workplace

Employers should have mental health first aiders in the workplace for several important reasons.

Mental health first aiders are trained individuals who can offer initial support and assistance to colleagues or employees experiencing mental health challenges.

Here are the key reasons why having mental health first aiders in the workplace is beneficial:

1. Early Intervention: Mental health first aiders are equipped to recognise the early signs of mental health issues. By identifying problems at an early stage, they can intervene promptly and provide appropriate support, preventing the situation from worsening.

2. Reducing Stigma: Having mental health first aiders helps to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace. Their presence and training demonstrate that the organisation takes mental well-being seriously, encouraging open conversations about mental health.

3. Providing Supportive Environment: Knowing that there are mental health first aiders available creates a more supportive and caring workplace culture. Employees may feel more comfortable reaching out for help and support when needed.

4. Improved Employee Well-being: Mental health first aiders can provide practical assistance and guidance to individuals facing mental health challenges. This support can contribute to improved well-being and help employees cope better with stressors.

5. Reducing Absenteeism and Presenteeism: By offering early support and interventions, mental health first aiders can help reduce absenteeism (employees being absent from work due to mental health issues) and presenteeism (employees attending work despite being unwell).

6. Promoting Mental Health Literacy: Having mental health first aiders in the workplace increases overall mental health literacy among employees. This can lead to better self-awareness, understanding of mental health issues, and knowledge of available resources.

7. Enhancing Resilience and Coping Skills: Mental health first aiders can provide coping strategies and resilience-building techniques to employees, helping them better manage stress and adversity.

8. Referral to Professional Help: While mental health first aiders can provide initial support, they are not a substitute for professional mental health services. However, they can refer individuals to appropriate resources and services for further assistance.

9. Improved Employee Engagement: When employees feel supported and cared for, their engagement and loyalty to the organisation are likely to increase.

10. Compliance with Legal and Ethical Responsibilities: In some regions, there are legal and ethical obligations for employers to address mental health concerns in the workplace. Having mental health first aiders is a proactive step towards meeting these responsibilities.

11. Crisis Management: Mental health first aiders are trained to handle mental health crises such as panic attacks, suicidal ideation, or self-harming behaviours. Their ability to respond effectively in such situations can be crucial.

Overall, having mental health first aiders in the workplace is an essential component of a comprehensive approach to employee well-being. They play a vital role in creating a mentally healthy workplace, supporting employees' mental health, and fostering a positive work environment.