Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a course that teaches participants practical skills to help people with mental illness. It provides 3-year accreditation and is ideal for anyone aged 18 and up. The course covers the symptoms, signs and treatment of a mental illness. It also helps participants to identify the appropriate resources for help.
The MHFA course has been evaluated extensively in independent organizations and research trials. These evaluations show that MHFA course attendees report a higher knowledge of mental illness and more confidence in providing first aid. These improvements persist over time. In addition, some studies show reduced stigma and increased support for people experiencing mental illness.
According to the Australian Government, one in six Australian adolescents will meet criteria for a mental illness in any given year. While regular first aid training is essential for schools and workplaces, mental health problems are much more common among young people. To combat this epidemic, organizations like Safer Communities are developing youth mental health first aid course. The courses teach students the practical skills necessary to help young people in crisis situations.
The training is led by experienced mental health nurses. The instructors are qualified in primary health care and forensic mental health. The MHFA course also includes an online assessment. Once successful, participants receive a certificate of accreditation. This certificate is valid for three years. In addition, most professionals can claim attendance at a MHFA course as CPD.
Mental Health First Aid course are a great way to demonstrate to employees that you care about their well-being. It also shows that your organization values its employees. As a result, it is in everyone's interest to improve the mental health of workers. As such, MHFA courses are becoming increasingly popular with both employees and employers.
A mental health crisis can be very stressful and overwhelming. If you are not trained in the field, you may not know what to do in an emergency. Mental health first aid courses train you to recognize and treat mental illnesses as well as to give advice to people who are suffering. It also helps you learn to communicate with people in a nonjudgmental way. MHFA courses also help you to learn where to get professional help.
