In today’s fast-paced and high-pressure work environments, mental health issues have become increasingly prevalent. With one in four people experiencing mental health issues each year and c.676 million people affected by these same issues worldwide.
As a result, it is crucial for workplaces to prioritise the mental well-being of their employees in order to have a happy, productive, and sustainable workforce. The key effective way to do this is by providing Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. In this blog, we will explore why Mental Health First Aid training is a necessity in the workplace, the benefits it can bring to both individuals and organisations, and the Mental Health First Aid we provide here at Morson Training:
Recognising the signs of mental health issues
Mental Health First Aid training equips employees with the knowledge and skills to identify the early signs and symptoms of mental health problems. This includes recognising signs of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and more. By having a better understanding of these issues, individuals can offer timely support and intervention, potentially preventing further escalation.
Reducing stigma and promoting a supportive culture
Creating an environment of understanding, empathy, and acceptance helps to break down any unnecessary stigmas associated with mental health. When employees are educated about mental health issues, they are more likely to offer support and engage in open conversations. This creates a workplace culture that promotes mental well-being and encourages individuals to seek help when needed.
Improving overall well-being and productivity
Mental health concerns can significantly impact an individual’s productivity, engagement, and overall performance at work. By providing Mental Health First Aid training, organisations empower employees to take care of their mental health, enhancing their overall well-being. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to be motivated, productive, and satisfied in their roles.
Early intervention and prevention:
Mental Health First Aid Training teaches individuals how to approach someone who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or distress. It provides them with practical skills to offer initial support, listen non-judgmentally, and guide the person towards appropriate professional help. Early intervention and prevention can be instrumental in averting more severe mental health issues and potentially saving lives.
Attraction, retention, absence, and productivity:
Investing in Mental Health First Aid training is cost-effective for organisations in the long run. By promoting mental well-being and preventing mental health issues from escalating, companies can reduce absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover rates. Moreover, creating a mentally healthy workplace can enhance employee morale, loyalty, and attract top talent. Mental health programmes can actually generate a return on investment of up to 80%.
The Mental Health Training courses we offer:
Here at Morson Training, we offer a range of support to help create, develop and deliver your health and well-being strategy. With national presence, dedicated training facilities and a team of consultants that can deliver in the comfort of your organisation, we can offer a service that’s tailored to your needs. All our mental health courses below are fully accredited through Ofqual-approved awarding bodies:
MHFA Mental Health First Aid
Duration: Two-day course
Learning outcomes:
- An in-depth understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect wellbeing
- Enhanced interpersonal skills such as non-judgemental listening
- The knowledge to help someone and signpost them in order to seek early intervention
Mental Health Champion
Duration: One-day course
Learning outcomes:
- An understanding of common mental health issues
- The knowledge to confidently advocate for mental health awareness
- The ability to spot signs of mental ill health
- Skills to support positive well-being
MHFA Mental Health Awareness
Duration: Half-day course
Learning outcomes:
- An understanding of what mental health is and how to challenge stigma
- A basic knowledge of some common mental health issues
- An introduction to looking after your own mental health and maintaining wellbeing
- The confidence to support someone in distress or who may be experiencing a mental health issue
Health and Wellbeing Consultation
A private health check with a qualified nutritionist designed to provide an indication of an individual’s general health and spark a conversation around healthy behaviours. Including:
- Weight and BMI
- Body fat, muscle, and water percentages
- Bone density
- Metabolic age
- Blood pressure
Measurements are interpreted in a meaningful way for each individual and any recommendations for improvement are provided. The health check is followed by a discussion surrounding the individual’s nutrition, activity, and healthy lifestyle behaviours such as sleep, alcohol use, and smoking. The consultation is used as an opportunity to inform on the established relationship between good physical health and mental wellbeing.
FAA Level 1 Award: 4 hours
Duration: 4-hours
Purpose: Provide learners with the knowledge to recognise a range of mental health conditions, how to start a supportive conversation, and when and how to signpost a person to seek appropriate professional help.
Learning outcomes: Learners will know how to:
- To recognise and manage stress
- Recognise a range of mental health conditions
- Start a supportive conversation
- To signpost a person to seek appropriate professional help
*Learners will not diagnose or treat mental health conditions as this can only be carried out by healthcare professionals but will gain the knowledge to identify when a person may have a condition and know where they can go to get help.
FAA Level 2 Award: 1 day
Duration: 6-hours
Purpose: This qualification provides learners with the knowledge to recognise a range of mental health conditions, how to start a supportive conversation, and when and how to signpost a person to seek appropriate professional help.
Learning outcomes:
- Recognise and manage stress and understand the impact of substance abuse
- Learn about the first aid action plan for mental health
- Know how to implement a positive mental health culture in the workplace
* Learners will not diagnose or treat mental health conditions as this can only be carried out by healthcare professionals but will gain the knowledge to identify when a person may have a condition and know where they can go to get help.
FAA Level 3 Award: 2 day
Duration: 12-hours
Purpose: This qualification provides learners with the knowledge to recognise a wide range of mental health conditions and learn about the support/therapy provided by professional healthcare providers.
Learning outcomes:
- Know how to start a supportive conversation and when and how to signpost a person to seek appropriate professional help.
- Recognise and manage stress and understand the impact of substance abuse.
- Be able to put it in place and understand how to implement a positive mental health culture in the workplace.
* Learners will not diagnose or treat mental health conditions as this can only be carried out by healthcare professionals but will gain the knowledge to identify when a person may have a condition and know where they can go to get help
In an era where mental health is gaining recognition as a vital aspect of overall well-being, implementing Mental Health First Aid training in the workplace is no longer a luxury but a necessity. By equipping employees with the knowledge and skills to recognise and support mental health concerns, organisations can create a healthier, more compassionate, and productive work environment. Prioritising mental health benefits individuals and the entire organisation, ensuring that everyone thrives both personally and professionally.
