Introduction to Mental Health First Aid – Online Training Package

Welcome to our online Introduction to Mental Health First Aid training package. All our online training courses, programmes and packages are accredited by the CPD Certification Service (CPDUK).

Mental health is a significant issue in the UK. There were 5,583 registered suicides in England and Wales, equivalent to a rate of 10.7 deaths per 100,000 people (ONS, 2021). These deaths could be avoided with the correct interventions and support.

In this training package, learners will be able to have a good understanding of mental health and the different mental health conditions that will equip them with the knowledge and skills to provide mental health first aid in specific circumstances.

Who is the course for?

This Introduction to Mental Health First Aid eLearning package is suitable for anyone who wishes to increase their knowledge and understanding of mental health and mental health conditions and how to administer mental health first aid in times of mental health crises and emergencies.

What is covered in this course?

This online Introduction to Mental Health First Aid training package covers the following modules:

• Introduction to Mental Health
• The History of Mental Health Support and Legislation
• Understanding Mental Health Conditions
• Understanding the Role of a Mental Health First Aider
• Providing Mental Health First Aid in Specific Circumstances.

Course aims

The aims of this online Introduction to Mental Health First Aid training package are to:

• Understand the key definitions around mental health and mental ill health.
• Understand the risk factors that increase the chance of someone developing a mental health issue and the protective factors which may prevent this.
• Understand the impact of mental ill health on individuals and those close to them.

Learning objectives

This online Introduction to Mental Health First Aid training package will:

• Discuss the key signs and indicators of mental ill-health.
• Establish the history of mental health support in the UK and current legislation designed to protect and promote mental health.
• Examine the signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions, including stress, anxiety disorders, depression, self-harm, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders and substance dependency.
• Discuss what mental health first aid means and the role of the mental health first aider.
• Classify a mental health crisis or emergency.
• Consider the actions to take if someone is experiencing a mental health crisis or is suicidal.
• Examine sources of mental health support.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this online Introduction to Mental Health First Aid training package, you should be able to:

• Define the concepts of mental health, mental ill-health and the mental health continuum.
• Outline examples of protective factors that may reduce the risk of someone developing mental health issues.
• Evaluate the impact of mental health conditions on individuals living with these and those close to them.
• Give examples of common physical, psychological and behavioural signs and indicators of mental ill-health.
• Describe current government initiatives designed to protect and promote mental health and the rights of individuals with mental health conditions.
• Describe the actions to take and what not to do if an individual is experiencing suicidal thoughts and displaying suicidal behaviours. 
• Identify when someone is having a panic attack and ways to support someone displaying suicidal thoughts or behaviours.
• Explain the importance of giving dignified, respectful and person-centred support when dealing with a mental health emergency.
• Explain the importance of taking care of their own mental health and only working within their limits and boundaries when supporting others with their mental health.
• Give examples of sources of help and support for mental health they can signpost individuals to as required.

Why is this online Introduction to Mental Health First Aid training package essential?

This online Introduction to Mental Health training package is designed to enable learners to develop their understanding of the mental health continuum and the different points of this scale as well as the potential risk factors which may increase the risk of individuals developing mental health issues and potential protective factors which may reduce the risks. Learners will also understand the importance of giving dignified, respectful and person-centred support when dealing with a mental health crisis and different ways of doing this.