What is Mental Health First Aid training?
This blog is written by Barrie Norman Jnr – Senior Mental Health First Aid and Suicide First-Aid trainer, and Operational Lead.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training isn’t just another tick-box course.
It’s about building a workplace culture where people genuinely look out for one another. Where mental health is taken as seriously as physical health. MHFA helps create a team of wellbeing champions who can spot the signs that someone’s struggling, open-up a supportive conversation, and guide them to the right kind of help.
We wouldn’t dream of not having fire wardens or physical first aiders at work, so why should mental health be any different?
Why is MHFA training important?
1 in 4 people in the UK will face a mental health problem each year, and work-related stress is a big part of that.
In fact, 25% of UK workers say they feel unable to cope with stress at work, which means millions of people are turning up each day carrying invisible burdens.
MHFA training gives businesses the tools to do something about it. It sends a clear message: your mental health matters, and support isn’t just available, it’s part of how we work.
What’s covered in MHFA training?
MHFA training can be delivered online or in-person, depending on what suits your business best. Both formats are interactive, practical, and focused on giving people real confidence to support their colleagues.
Here’s what’s included:
- Understanding common mental health conditions:
Learners explore conditions like anxiety disorders, depression, self-harm, suicide, psychosis, and substance use, helping to reduce stigma and build empathy.
- Spotting the signs:
Whether it’s a change in behaviour, mood, or communication, MHFA training helps people notice when someone might be struggling.
- Starting the conversation:
One of the most powerful things we can do is ask, “Are you okay?” – and mean it. MHFA training builds the confidence and skills to have those open, supportive conversations without fear of saying the wrong thing.
- Helping in a crisis:
From panic attacks to thoughts of suicide, MHFA training shows people how to respond with calm, compassion, and clarity, and how to guide someone to appropriate professional support. - Encouraging everyday wellbeing:
It’s not just about crisis moments. MHFA training also gives practical tools to help build a resilient, mentally healthy culture where people can thrive.
We know that early support can make all the difference and that starts with awareness. MHFA training helps create safe, supportive workplaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued. It’s about empowering your team and making mental health a real priority.
And it’s good for business too: research shows there’s an average return of £5 for every £1 invested in workplace mental health!
So why wait for a crisis?
Get in touch with us today and let our MHFA training help you!
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