Key Benefits of Enrolling in a Mental Health First Aid Course
The mental health first aid training program has grown increasingly popular over the past few years and is expected to continue to grow. There are a number of benefits associated with enrolling in an MHFA course, and this article outlines those benefits. This article outlines the main benefits of enrolling in a MHFA course.
Key Takeaways
Mental health first aid courses benefit both individuals and communities. Some of the benefits of enrolling in an MHFA course are:
- It helps reduce the stigma
- It facilitates the detection of early warning signs
- Participants gain an improved understanding of mental health issues and treatment options
- It promotes a positive work environment
- It supports mental health recovery
Defining What MHFA Courses Are
Mental health first aid courses provide individuals with the skills necessary to support people experiencing mental health issues or crises.
In the course, participants learn about signs and risk factors related to mental health and substance use concerns, interventions that can be used in both crisis and non-crisis situations and resources for seeking help.
What Is Covered in a Typical Mental Health First Aid Course?
Facing a mental health problem or crisis can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. People suffering from mental health problems or substance use issues may find it hard to tell what to do or what treatment options are available. This is where mental health training comes in handy.
An MHFA course teaches you what to do in a crisis until assistance arrives. During this course, participants will learn how to recognise mental health issues early on, what communication techniques to use and how to seek professional help. MHFA courses cover various mental health problems, such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, PTSD and psychosis.
During a mental health first aid course, participants learn about the mental health first aid action plan and its application in various situations, such as when someone is experiencing panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, self-harm, drug or alcohol overdose or withdrawal and trauma-related reactions. Practising mental health first aid skills through role plays, scenarios and activities make it easier for them to be applied in real life.
A mental health first aid course also focuses on recovery and resiliency. It emphasises the belief that people struggling with challenges have the ability to overcome them and remain strong.
Benefits of Attending a Mental Health First Aid Course
Helps reduce stigma
Many people are afraid to open up about their mental health issues, fearing that they will be judged or labelled as mentally ill. Taking part in mental health first aid courses can play a crucial role in reducing the stigma associated with mental health problems in the community. Taking a mental health first aid course is one of the best ways for individuals to better understand mental health problems and realise that seeking help is not a sign of weakness.
Facilitates detection of early warning signs
Mental health first aid training teaches people to recognise the early signs of mental health issues. MFHA plays a critical role in reducing the stigma associated with mental health problems. It is also helpful in understanding the importance of early intervention.
Recognising mental health symptoms in the early stages can make a difference in the outcome. Regularly checking in on a person with poor mental health will help you stay aware of how they are doing. For instance, in the workplace setting, an employee may be struggling with their work-life balance, which can be resolved by adjusting their work schedule. To improve their outlook, sometimes all they need is to talk to an impartial person, someone they know will listen.
An improved understanding of mental health issues and treatment options
Supporting loved ones struggling can be difficult if people are unaware of mental health problems. Mental health first aid training equips participants with the skills necessary to recognise, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use issues. After completing the course, participants feel more confident about their abilities to help someone struggling with those issues.
Promotes a positive work environment
For businesses, providing mental health first aid training to your workers not only supports your current staff but also sets the stage for building a mental health culture. Taking care of your team’s mental health demonstrates how much you value their well-being as an employer, attracts people who share your values and ensures a positive working environment.
Supports mental health recovery
Besides recognising the signs of poor mental health, mental health first aid training helps guide individuals through the tools they need to assist those in recovery. This plays an essential role in supporting and motivating individuals suffering from mental health issues to return to their daily activities.
Who Can Benefit from Taking a Mental Health First Aid Course?
Mental health first aid is a program aimed at helping public members support those facing challenging times. Often, the first call for help is the most crucial. Knowing what to do in a crisis may be difficult, but knowing how to offer support and recognise mental illness warning signs can make all the difference.
Mental health first aid training is available to anyone. Additionally, no prior knowledge or skill is required, meaning you do not need to be a health professional to enrol in MHFA programs. The training is open to community and business organisations. Many employers also offer mental health first aid training as part of their workplace training courses. Aside from employers, MHFA training is also available for healthcare workers, non-profit organisations, educational institutions, government agencies and the general public.
Be a Mental Health First Aider Today
The benefits of attending a mental health first aid course are numerous and extensive. The training plays a vital role in raising mental health awareness and dispelling stigma.
At EDP, we offer workplace mental health training courses and anti-racism courses that are great for workplaces, health professionals, private practices, educators, line managers and the general public. Book a course today!
