Giving NHS staff the knowledge to support each other in times of need
Mental Health First Aid training that helps to teach NHS staff and volunteers how to look after their own mental health, as well as how to support their colleagues.
London, England
NHS Charities Together funded the Mental Health First Aid training.
Sarah is a volunteer at South West London & St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust. Having lived experience of a mental health diagnosis herself, she was keen to access mental health first aid training.
The training taught Sarah how to look after her own mental health, as well as how to support others who appear to be struggling.
Speaking about the difference it’s made, Sarah said:
“We all have mental health, and it needs to be looked after just like our physical health.
“The training is about breaking down the stigmas and making it a conversation everyone is comfortable having. The training allows people to ask questions and talk about mental health freely in a safe and open space.
“It’s a comprehensive introduction to a range of mental health illnesses. The training also teaches you how to look after your own mental health, how to start a conversation with someone who is struggling, how to recognise signs, and how to signpost to the right resources.
“It was great to be on a course with so many people who were eager to learn how they can better support those struggling. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, everyone has taken something away from it and found it really valuable.
“Many feel uncomfortable with disclosing their mental health in the workplace. I hope this training empowers people to be more open, but also more aware of how to support others. I felt empowered to share my diagnosis and my colleagues have been really supportive.
“Mental distress in the workplace can be caused by a range of factors, not just the job itself. It's so important employers and colleagues are aware of what they can do to support and signpost.
“It was great to attend a course like this because it provides hope for people like me who have lived experience. It’s also great to know there are people out there who can spot the signs if you are in a crisis. It feels like a mental health revolution, and we are moving in the right direction.”
