This course introduces first aid for mental health to health professionals with an interest in gaining a better understanding of common mental health illnesses affecting their patients, or colleagues. It aims to give you the ability to spot the early signs and symptoms, (not diagnose) of a range of mental health conditions, recognise common triggers in mental ill health and signs that someone may need support. At the end of the course, you will have deepened your non-judgemental listening skills, explored the role of a first aid action plan for mental health which will give you the confidence to know when and how to signpost a person to professional help and manage their self-care. Mental health awareness training helps health professionals to become role models to promote a greater understanding of mental health in the total wellbeing of patients, colleagues and themselves.
Please be aware that this course covers subjects that some people may find distressing, including suicide and self-harm. If a delegate feels overwhelmed, they can step out at any time. However, if you feel in advance that this subject may be too distressing please do not book. For support with your mental health, please contact Samaritans on 116 123, or NHS 111.
Osteopathic Practice Standards (updated) and other CPD elements covered
A) Communication and patient partnership A1, A2, A5,
B) Knowledge, skills and performance B2, B3
C) Safety and quality in practice C1, C4, C6
D Professionalism D2, D10, D11
Learning outcomes
By the end of the course, delegates will be able to:
- Recognize the early signs and symptoms of mental ill-health
- Be able to provide initial help to stop mental ill health from worsening
- Signpost the person towards appropriate professional help
- Have the tools to break the stigma of a mental health problem
- Be mindful of their own wellbeing with self-care tips
Course suitability
The course is suitable for qualified healthcare practitioners.
Equipment recommended for the course
Laptop or tablet to view notes digitally.
Course timetable
09:20 – 09:30 Registration
09:30 – 09:45 Introduction
09:45 – 10:15 What is first aid for mental health?
10:15 – 10:45 Identifying mental health conditions
10:45 – 11:15 Guidance on how to start a difficult conversation
Your own health, emotions and well-being
Breakout session 1
11:15 – 11:30 Break
11:30 – 12:00 Stress
12:00 – 12:30 Drugs and alcohol misuse
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch
13:30 – 14:30 Mental health conditions – Depression, anxiety, psychosis, eating disorders, self-harm, suicide
14:30 – 15:30 First aid action plan for mental health
Signposting to professional support, treatments, self-help strategies
Breakout session 2 to consolidate learning
15:30 – 16:00 Break
16:00 – 16:30 Mental health in the workplace. Breakout session 3
16:30 – 17:00 Putting it all together, partner and group work to formulate action plans. Breakout session 4
17:00 – 17:30 Summary Q & A