Mental Health First Aid

I’ve got time to talk…

Statistics show, that mental health issues are the number one cause of sickness absences in the workplace throughout the UK. Even though mental health awareness is growing day by day, discussing mental health issues in the workplace still seems to be a bit of a taboo subject.

A recent survey suggested that only 13% of workers would be comfortable discussing a mental health issue at work, and worse, was that 64% feared being judged by their direct managers if discussing their mental health.

Main Factors:

Workload pressures,
Tight deadlines
Large responsibility
Lack of managerial support

As a growing concern, employers worldwide are taking action to offer support for employees and improve the health and well-being of people within their organisation with the support of various training such as Mental health First Aid (MHFA)

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)

Mental Health First Aid teaches about recovery and resiliency – the belief that individuals experiencing these challenges can and do get better and use their strengths to stay well.

Mental Health First Aid is internationally recognised and designed to teach people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill-health as well as provide help on a first response basis. In the same way as learning physical first aid, MHFA teaches people how to recognise those crucial warning signs of mental ill-health and feel confident to guide someone towards the appropriate support.

Embedding MHFA training within any organisation or community also encourages people to talk more openly about mental health, reducing stigma and creating a more positive culture.

Mental Health First Aiders play a crucial and valued role throughout society and it’s integral to recognise the important work carried out. It’s now understood that over 4 million people worldwide have received mental health training with over 50,000 of those able to provide advanced support by being qualified instructors.

The Importance of MHFA

Mental health problems are common.
Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year. In England, 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (such as anxiety and depression) in any given week.
There is a stigma associated with mental health problems.
Negative attitudes and behaviours about mental health disorders and treatments can cause those affected to try to hide their problems and avoid getting necessary help.
Many people lack understanding.
Some individuals may not know how to recognise mental health problems, how to respond, or what effective treatments are available.
Professional help isn’t always on hand.
When professional help isn’t available, employees can offer immediate first aid and assist the person in finding appropriate help and support.
Few know how to respond.
MHFA participants learn a five-step action plan to be able to support someone with a mental illness or who develops the signs and symptoms of an emotional crisis.
Those with mental health problems may not seek help.
Those individuals may not realise that they need help or may be unaware that effective help is available. It is estimated that 75% of people with mental health problems in England may not get access to the treatment they need.

St John Ambulance

St John Ambulance offer organisations a two-day mental health first aid course which will qualify delegates as Mental Health First Aiders. Delegates are awarded a level 3 qualification which equips them with the knowledge to identify those who require mental health support and the confidence to offer assistance when required.

The training takes a uniquely practical approach to create competent and confident workplace first-aiders who can spot the signs and respond to the mental and physical health needs of a person experiencing a mental health issue.

St John Ambulance MHFA Course

Bellrock Supports Our Employee’s Mental Health

We understand the importance of talking about and addressing mental health issues throughout our workplace and we’re here to support all our employees in any difficulties, challenges, or uncertainties. Several of our employees have just successfully enrolled and completed Mental Health First Aid training, provided by St John Ambulance. They will join our growing team of Mental Health First Aiders at Bellrock, helping to support our colleagues throughout the group, and promoting a positive workplace, health, and well-being.

Our Mental Health First Aiders are proud to be part of approximately 4 million workplaces Mental Health First Aiders worldwide.