Mental Health First Aid is a training program that teaches individuals how to recognize and support someone who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. The course covers a wide range of topics, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use disorders, and provides participants with the skills to have effective conversations with individuals experiencing mental health concerns and connect them with appropriate help.
The Standard Mental Health First Aid course typically runs for 12 hours, delivered over two days or four half-days. During the course, participants learn about:
The prevalence of mental health problems and the impact they have on individuals, families, and communities.
The signs and symptoms of common mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders.
The risk factors and triggers that can contribute to the development of mental health problems.
The principles of recovery and how to support individuals in their recovery journey.
The five-step Mental Health First Aid action plan, which provides a framework for supporting someone in a mental health crisis.
One of the key components of the Standard Mental Health First Aid course is interactive role-playing and scenario-based activities. These activities give participants the opportunity to practice the skills and knowledge they have learned and receive feedback from the instructor and other participants.
The course is designed to be inclusive and culturally sensitive, and participants come from a range of backgrounds, including those with lived experience of mental health problems, health and welfare professionals, teachers, and members of the general public.
The Standard Mental Health First Aid course is evidence-based and has been proven to be effective in increasing participants’ confidence and knowledge in providing mental health first aid. Research has shown that after completing the course, participants are better equipped to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health problems, have more positive attitudes towards people with mental health problems, and are more likely to provide help to someone in need.
At the end of the Standard Mental Health First Aid course, participants receive a certificate of completion and are encouraged to become Mental Health First Aid Champions in their communities, spreading the message of mental health first aid and encouraging others to take the course.
In conclusion, the Standard Mental Health First Aid course online is a valuable training opportunity for anyone who wants to learn how to recognize and support someone who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. It is an evidence-based program that has been proven to increase participants’ knowledge, confidence, and ability to provide mental health first aid. Whether you are a health professional, a teacher, a member of the general public, or someone with lived experience of mental health problems, the Standard Mental Health First Aid course is an excellent investment in your personal and professional development.