Just like how we learn physical first aid to help someone with a cut or sprain, Mental Health First Aid equips us to support those experiencing mental health challenges. It's a skill that's becoming as essential as knowing how to apply a bandage, and it's changing the way we approach mental health in our communities. 

What is Mental Health First Aid? 

Mental Health First Aid is a training program that teaches people how to recognise and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. It's like learning CPR but for mental health crises. The program was born in Australia in 2000 and created by Betty Kitchener and Professor Tony Jorm. Since then, it's spread to over 30 countries worldwide! 

In Mental Health First Aid courses, participants learn how to: 

• Learn to recognise the signs and symptoms of different mental health problems.  
• Respond to mental health crises 
• Provide initial help and support 
• To direct a person towards suitable professional support. 

The beauty of this course is that it's for everyone. You don't need to be a mental health professional to learn these skills. Whether you're a teacher or a retiree, Mental Health First Aid can give you the tools to make a real difference in someone's life. 

What Mental Health First Aid is Not! 

Mental Health First Aid does not train you to: 

• Diagnose mental illnesses 
• Provide counselling or therapy 
• Replace professional help 

It's about being a supportive first responder, not a substitute for professional mental health care. 

Why Mental Health First Aid Matters in New Zealand? 

According to the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand, approximately one in five New Zealanders experience a mental health problem in any given year. These statistics underscore the critical need for support and understanding within our communities. 

Mental Health First Aid is crucial because: 

• It breaks down stigma: By talking openly about mental health and learning how to help, we're challenging the silence and shame that often surrounds mental illness. 
• It promotes early intervention: The sooner someone gets help for a mental health problem, the better their chances of recovery, helping people recognise issues early and act. 
• It creates a supportive community: When more people know, it's like having a support network throughout our communities. 
• It saves lives: In severe cases, these skills can be lifesaving, especially when it comes to suicide prevention. 

The Mental Health First Aid Course 

The standard course typically lasts 12 hours, usually spread over two days. Here's what you can expect to learn: 

Mental health problems 

You'll learn about common mental illnesses like depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and substance use disorders. 

The Action Plan 

Action Plan is the core of the course. You'll learn a step-by-step approach to providing Mental Health First Aid. We'll use the acronym ALGEE to help you remember the process: 

• Approach, assess and assist with any crisis 
• Listen non-judgmentally 
• Give support and information 
• Encourage appropriate professional help 
• Encourage other supports 

Crisis  

The course covers how to help in mental health crises like suicidal thoughts and behaviours, non-suicidal self-injury, panic attacks, traumatic events, severe psychotic states, and severe effects from alcohol or drug use. 

Practical exercises 

You'll get to practice your new skills through role-plays and group discussions. 

Mental Health First Aid in Action 

You might wonder: What does Mental Health First Aid look like in real life? Let's walk through a scenario: 

Imagine your mate, Dave, has been acting a bit off lately. He's stopped coming to footy practice, is always tired, and seems to have lost interest in things he used to enjoy. You're worried about him, but you're not sure what to do. 

Here’s where you put your ALGEE action into practice to help Dave:  

A - Approach: You approach Dave, expressing your concern and asking if he's okay. 

L - Listen: You listen to Dave without judgment, allowing him to express his feelings and experiences. 

G - Give support: You validate Dave's feelings and provide information about depression and available support services. 

E - Encourage professional help: You suggest Dave talk to his general practitioner and offer to accompany him if he'd like. 

E - Encourage other supports: You remind Dave that you and his other mates are there for him and suggest support networks like family or community groups. 

Mental Health First Aid for Different Groups: 

These specialised courses recognise that different groups might have different mental health needs and cultural considerations, including: 

• A 12-hour course for adults helping other adults. 
• For adults working with young people aged 12-18. 
• Children in grades 2 to 4 and 5 to 6 should learn to support their classmates. 
• Culturally appropriate training for supporting Indigenous New Zealanders. 
• Focused on the unique mental health needs of older adults. 
• Tailored programs for workplaces, universities, and other specific settings. 

The Impact of Mental Health First Aid 

Since its introduction, it has had a massive impact worldwide, with over 6 million people trained in Mental Health First Aid! 

Research has shown that people who complete Mental Health First Aid training: 

• Have improved knowledge of mental illnesses and their treatments 
• Have decreased stigmatising attitudes 
• Feel more confident in providing help to others 
• Tend to encourage individuals to seek professional care 

The future holds exciting potential for Mental Health First Aid in New Zealand. There's talk of making it part of school curriculums, integrating it more fully into workplaces, and developing specialised courses for different communities. 

ACT Safety: First Aid for Minds 

At ACT Safety, we believe everyone deserves the skills and knowledge to support their mental health and the well-being of others. That's why we offer comprehensive Health and Safety Training NZ, including Mental Health First Aid programs tailored to individuals, workplaces, and communities.

Our experienced trainers deliver engaging and informative sessions that equip participants with practical tools to make a positive difference. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills or build a mentally healthy workplace culture, ACT Safety can help.

Contact us today to learn more about our courses and how we can support you on your journey towards a mentally healthier New Zealand.