Scope

One in four people in the UK are likely to experience mental health problems each year.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet whilst we know how to take care of our own physical health, many people do not know how to support relatives, friends, colleagues and Team Members who are experiencing poor mental health. By developing a greater understanding of common mental health issues, as well as how best to support and guide someone to professional help, which in turn can help further reduce the stigma associated with mental health in the UK.

Aim

The QA Level 3 Award in Mental Health First Aid in the Workplace (RQF) is a regulated and nationally recognised qualification that has been specifically designed for those who would like to raise their awareness of mental health, develop an understanding on how best to support, reassure and signpost colleagues to professional support. What’s more, candidates will develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to actively promote positive mental health within their volunteer organisation.

Learning Outcomes

Understanding Mental Health and its importance

The roles and responsibilities for Mental Health in the volunteer environment;

Importance of our own wellbeing as a Mental Health First Aider:

Common Mental Health conditions, including:

• Suicide
• Characteristics and features;
• Work-related stress;
• Anxiety;
• Eating disorders;
• Depression;
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD);
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD);
• Phobias;
• Bipolar;
• Self-harm;
• Psychosis;

Mental Health First Aid in the volunteer environment:

• How should we support Mental Health First Aiders in the team
• Appropriate self-care strategies

Types of support available both locally and nationally