Every company has a physical first aider but what about mental health first aid? Mental health is very prevalent within the workplace. Because many employees feel like they cannot talk about the subject. Furthermore, that there will be no support or will be treated differently.
Did you know that:
- Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year.
- 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem in any given week.
- Women are more likely than men to have a common mental health problem.
- 1 in 6.8 people experience mental health problems in the workplace.
- Evidence suggests that 12.7% of all sickness absence days in the UK can be attributed to mental health conditions.
- UK business can save £8 billion per year by implementing better mental wellbeing support in the workplace.
What is Mental Health First Aid?
Mental Health First Aid is the mental health equivalent of physical first aid. This training is an internationally recognised and accredited two-day course developed by Mental Health First Aid England. It is designed to raise the awareness of mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Attending a Mental Health First Aid course will provide individuals with:
- The practical skills, knowledge and confidence to recognise the symptoms of mental health issues
- Effectively support anyone experiencing mental distress
- Provide information on how to guide those experiencing problems towards seeking appropriate professional help
Why should your company have a Mental Health First Aider?
Mental health is a growing concern as indicated above by Mind. Especially since one in four of us are likely to experience a mental health problem each year! Additionally, this is likely to impact on our ability to work. Mental ill health is the single largest cause of disability in the UK. As a result this will the cost the economy around £105 billion annually. This includes direct costs of services and lost productivity at work.
What does the course cover?
The two-day course covers four specific sections:
- Mental Health First Aid, mental health and depression
- Depression and suicidal crisis
- Anxiety, personality disorders, eating disorder and self-harm
- Psychosis, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
Read more: The Mental Health organisations you need to know about
