Workplace First Aid includes Mental Health
Mental Health First Aid is the help provided to a person developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Just as physical first aid is administered to an injured person before medical treatment can be obtained, MHFA is provided until appropriate support is found or until the crisis is resolved.
Colleagues and managers are best placed to be the first to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health issues in their co-workers, provided they are properly trained in Mental Health First Aid.
MHFA trained employees will help equip your organization to:
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Recognize and understand the symptoms of mental health problems, including those related to substance abuse
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Provide help to prevent the mental health problem from developing into a more serious state
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Promote the recovery of good mental health by accommodating employees in distress or recovering from a crisis
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Increase productivity and reduce absenteeism and overall pressure on benefits
Evidence has shown that individuals who complete the 12-hour basic course have:
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Significantly greater recognition of the most common mental health illnesses and problems
- Decreased social distance from people with mental health illnesses or problems
- Increased confidence in providing help to others
- Demonstrated increase in helpful actions
Mental Health First Aid improves all aspects of the organization
Employers who set a strategic direction for improving mental health are rewarded with dramatic cost and effectiveness benefits, enjoying significant and sustainable enhancements in:
Productivity: happy and psychologically healthy employees work harder and more efficiently
Recruitment and Retention: today’s top-quality employees expect a workplace that supports their personal and professional growth
Cost Savings due to Disability and Absenteeism: there is a strong link between mental health, physical well-being and injury prevention
Conflict Reduction: better mental health among employees means fewer grievances and complaints and a stronger corporate reputation
Operational Success: mentally healthy workplaces are characterized by higher levels of employee motivation, commitment, innovation and creativity, as well as fewer errors, better decision making and improved planning.