St John Ambulance Adult Mental Health First Aid Training

• Understanding mental health
What mental health is, the range of factors that affect wellbeing, and how mental health exists on a spectrum that can change over time and in response to different circumstances.

• Common mental health conditions
The signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions — including anxiety, depression, psychosis and eating disorders — and the impact of stigma on whether people seek help or disclose difficulties.

• Recognising and approaching someone in difficulty
How to recognise early signs that someone may be experiencing poor mental health, how to approach them in a way that feels safe and supportive, and what to do if you are concerned someone may be in crisis.

• Active listening and communication
How to use active listening techniques and effective communication to have supportive conversations, maintain appropriate boundaries and avoid responses that can inadvertently make things worse.

• Providing initial support and signposting
How to offer initial first aid support to someone experiencing poor mental health, and how to signpost them towards appropriate professional help, workplace resources or community services.

• Roles, responsibilities and boundaries
The role of a Mental Health First Aider, what they are and are not expected to do, and how to manage the responsibility of supporting others while maintaining their own wellbeing.

• Promoting positive mental health
How to contribute to a workplace culture that supports mental health, reduces stigma and encourages people to seek help before difficulties become crises.

• Self-care and personal wellbeing
How to maintain personal wellbeing when regularly supporting others, and the self-care practices that help Mental Health First Aiders sustain the role over time.

• Assessment
Ongoing assessment through participation, practical activities and scenario-based learning, evaluated by the course instructor across both days.

Instructor-led course delivered through group discussions, practical exercises and real-life scenarios. Sessions are designed to encourage open discussion in a supportive environment.

Managers, supervisors, team leaders, HR and wellbeing professionals, and anyone with responsibility for supporting staff wellbeing. Also suitable for individuals who want to develop their understanding of mental health and their ability to support others

Delegates must be at least 16 years old. Delegates must be willing to engage in group discussions and practical exercises.