Salusphere Global's reversed company logo
Linkedin Facebook-f X-twitter

Mental Health First Aiders: A positive for businesses?

Silhouette cutouts of two heads: one red with jumbled lines, the other blue with a neat circle — representing mental health challenges and support.

Mental health issues are a growing concern in the UK workplace. According to the Mental Health Foundation, one in four people in the UK experience mental health problems each year. This has led to a growing awareness of the importance of mental health in the workplace and a push for businesses to take action.

One such action is the appointment of Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs).

What is a Mental Health First Aider?

A Mental Health First Aider is a trained individual who can identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental ill health. They are not therapists or counsellors but are equipped with the skills to offer initial support and guidance to someone experiencing a mental health crisis.

Pros of Having Mental Health First Aiders in the Workplace

  1. Improved Employee Wellbeing: MHFAs can create a more supportive and understanding workplace culture, encouraging open conversations about mental health. This can lead to improved employee morale, reduced stress, and increased job satisfaction.
  2. Reduced Absenteeism and Presenteeism: Mental health problems can lead to significant absenteeism and presenteeism, costing businesses billions of pounds each year. MHFAs can help to identify and address mental health issues early on, reducing the impact on productivity.
  3. Increased Productivity: A mentally healthy workforce is a more productive workforce. MHFAs can help to create a positive and supportive work environment, boosting employee morale and motivation.
  4. Reduced Stigma: MHFAs can help to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health, making it easier for employees to seek help.
  5. Legal Compliance: In the UK, employers have a legal duty of care to their employees’ health and safety, including their mental health. Having MHFAs can demonstrate a commitment to meeting this duty of care.

Cons of Having Mental Health First Aiders in the Workplace

  1. Increased Burden on Individuals: Being an MHFA can be a demanding role, and it is important to ensure that MHFAs are not overwhelmed.
  2. Limited Scope of Support: MHFAs are not trained therapists and cannot provide long-term therapy or counselling. They can offer initial support and guidance but should refer individuals to appropriate professional help.
  3. Potential for Misunderstanding: If not properly trained, MHFAs may misunderstand or misinterpret signs of mental ill health, leading to inappropriate or unhelpful responses.

A Strategy for Implementing Mental Health First Aiders in Your Business

  1. Assess Your Needs: Determine the number of MHFAs needed based on the size and nature of your business.
  2. Choose a Training Provider: Select a reputable training provider that offers accredited MHFA courses.
  3. Train Your MHFAs: Ensure that your MHFAs receive adequate training and ongoing support.
  4. Promote Mental Health Awareness: Create a culture of openness and understanding around mental health.
  5. Provide Clear Guidance: Develop clear guidelines for MHFAs on how to approach and support individuals with mental health concerns.
  6. Offer Support to MHFAs: Ensure that MHFAs have access to support and supervision.
  7. Evaluate the Programme: Regularly review the effectiveness of your MHFA programme and make adjustments as needed.

By carefully considering the pros and cons and implementing a well-thought-out strategy, businesses can reap the benefits of having Mental Health First Aiders in the workplace.

Contact us for informal chat or email in**@**************al.com

Subscribe for Essential Updates for a Healthier Workplace – delivers the latest insights, best practices and regulatory updates. Subscribe Here

Share the Post:

Related Posts

Mother and daughter playing with wooden blocks — representing support for parents of children with additional needs.

Supporting Parents of Children Additional Needs

Every day, millions of parents of children with additional needs face unique challenges that demand extraordinary resilience. Supporting parents through this journey is crucial, as they navigate an overwhelming landscape filled with endless appointments, therapy sessions, and a constant balancing act between their child’s needs and work responsibilities.
These dedicated caregivers often find themselves in uncharted waters, managing the complexities of raising children with additional needs while juggling school meetings and work deadlines. They face the dual challenge of advocating for their children’s support requirements while maintaining their professional responsibilities, all while dealing with healthcare and educational systems that can seem daunting.
For businesses, understanding and supporting parents with children who have additional needs isn’t just compassionate—it’s strategic. When employers recognize the unique pressures these parents face and provide meaningful workplace support, they unlock significant business advantages while making a genuine difference in their employees’ lives.

Read More
Wooden blocks on a table spelling out “Inclusion” in bright colours — representing neurodiversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Fostering Neuroinclusion

In today’s diverse world, fostering an inclusive environment goes beyond the traditional boundaries of acceptance. Neuroinclusion is gaining traction as a vital component in creating spaces where everyone can thrive—regardless of their neurological makeup. Whether you’re managing a team or part of a community group, understanding how to embrace neurodiversity can lead to innovative ideas and stronger connections.

Read More