Learning Objectives
Understand key concepts of Mental Health First Aid and apply them effectively in adult education settings.
Recognize early signs of mental health issues and provide initial support using empathetic communication and active listening.
Develop and implement crisis response protocols that address immediate risks while guiding individuals toward professional resources.
Foster inclusive educational environments that prioritise mental health, reduce stigma, and enhance support for all learners.
Module Overview
This module introduces Mental Health First Aid (MHFA®) principles, empowering educators to provide immediate, compassionate support during mental health crises. It highlights practical techniques like active listening, empathy, and safety assessments to foster inclusive learning environments.
The module is crucial as it addresses adult learners' growing mental health challenges in today’s uncertain world, helping educators create a safe, supportive, and effective educational experience.
By equipping educators with these essential skills, the module improves learning outcomes and contributes to educators' and learners' overall well-being and resilience.
Digital Presentation
Engagement Methods
Interactive role-play scenarios.
Quizzes to test understanding of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA®) principles.
Collaborative resource mapping activities.
Reflective prompts to encourage personal application.
Reflection & Feedback
Prompts to encourage feedback:
"What new strategies will you apply in your teaching?"
"How has this module changed your perspective on mental health in adult education?"
"Which aspects of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA®) do you feel most confident implementing?"
"What challenges do you foresee when applying these strategies in your educational setting?"
"What additional support or resources would help you feel more prepared to handle mental health crises?"
"How did the activities and resources in this module support your learning experience?"
Options for collecting feedback:
Written reflections in a journal or forum.
Voice or video recordings to share thoughts.
A survey with scaled and open-ended questions to gauge understanding and satisfaction.
Interactive polls to collect real-time insights during or after module completion.
Peer-to-peer discussion threads for collaborative reflections.
Facilitation tips
Set a respectful and supportive tone, emphasizing confidentiality and open communication.
Use breakout rooms for role-play and group activities to encourage hands-on practice.
Incorporate interactive tools like quizzes, polls, and videos to maintain engagement.
Provide constructive feedback promptly, focusing on strengths and areas for growth.
Encourage reflection through guided questions to connect learning with real-world application.
Be flexible and inclusive by adapting activities to diverse learning styles and needs.
Share follow-up resources to reinforce learning and provide additional support.
Resources and further readings
Mental Health First Aid International (MHFA®): www.mhfa.com.au
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): www.samhsa.gov
Mental Health Commission of Canada (2013). Making the Case for Investing in Mental Health in Canada. - https://mentalhealthcommission.ca/resource/making-the-case-for-investing-in-mental-health-in-canada/
World Health Organization (2021). World Mental Health Report. - https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/world-mental-health-report