You may have seen this week on our social media accounts, we have featured a Counselling post and an Awareness of Mental Health Problems post. For this reason, our blog this week is dedicated to another mental health qualification for our approved centres to offer learners who have an interest in supporting those with mental health conditions.
According to the Mind mental health charity, 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year in England. It has never been so important to continue to talk about mental health and how to access help. The Focus Awards Level 3 Award in First Aid for Mental Health (RQF) aims to develop the knowledge and understanding of mental health and a range of mental health issues. Learners will be able to develop and implement a first aid action plan for mental health and will also be able to signpost advice and support for a person with a mental health condition.
First aid training for mental health conditions has many benefits such as:
- Increases understanding in mental health – The training gives learners the knowledge and understanding of a range of mental health symptoms and conditions. The training can help learners identify factors which can affect a person’s wellbeing, while being able to identify signs and symptoms of someone struggling.
- Can help eradicate labels – Public attitudes, and labels surrounding mental health can be very harmful and damaging to people and their conditions. By completing the training, people’s misperceptions are challenged, and this can break down any stigma associated with mental health conditions.
- Create a positive mental health culture in the workplace – The qualification contributes to a healthier and compassionate environment, where people can openly talk about their mental health. This means that if employees need help, they will feel comfortable asking for further support without fear of judgement. This can help prevent people’s conditions from worsening if they seek help sooner.
It is also important to consider the key qualities needed, not just to be a successful first aider for mental health, but also for a career in the Health and Social Care sector. These include, empathy, kindness and a non-judgemental attitude. Gaining trust when people confide in you is extremely important and by showing someone kindness, they are more likely to come to you to signpost them for support. With 1 in 4 people experiencing a mental health condition, now is a great time to learn how to be there for someone when they need it the most.
Perhaps these potential mental health roles appeal to your learners?
- Occupational Therapist
- Social worker
- Care worker
- Counsellors
- Mental health nursing
If so, perhaps a first aid for mental health qualification could be a great addition to their CVs…
Are you’re interested in offering this qualification to your learners? Please send an email to info@focusawards.org.uk. Or give us a call on 0333 3447 388.