As an organisation we are passionate about First Aid and we recognise that good mental health is as vital as good physical health. Without both working in harmony we are unlikely to be able to reach our full potential.
It is accepted that when we injure ourselves physically we do not hesitate to seek help and treatment from a first aider or other healthcare professional. However, due to the stigma associated with mental health issues and the fear of discrimination those in mental health crisis are often reluctant to seek any help, potentially exacerbating the situation and reducing the likelihood of an earlier recovery.
At some point in our lives it is highly likely that we will experience mental ill health or have close contact with someone who does. Mental health issues are common and a normal part of life.
As with our physical health our mental health can fluctuate between good and poor. By becoming more aware of our own and others mental health and by learning strategies and coping mechanisms we can help to break down barriers and the stigma which exist. Only by doing this can we support and improve our wellbeing at work and in our home life.
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Resilience See-Saw
Our resilience is one of the factors determining our ability to cope during times of poor mental health. Negative thoughts can affect the balance of our resilience pushing the see saw down. To cope with this, we need to find a coping mechanism, such as reading, exercising or anything that gives us the feeling of wellbeing. This has the effect of equalling out the negative thoughts and feelings and reinstating the equilibrium.
When we are unable to reinstate the equilibrium, mental ill health issues can develop.
Our passion
Our passion for mental health First Aid has resulted in us joining forces with Mental Health First Aid England to provide a range of courses designed to raise awareness and understanding of mental health issues and work towards eliminating the stigma and discrimination surrounding it.
Delivering such thought-provoking courses requires great sensitivity. Our team of experienced, nationwide trainers are skilled and practised in ensuring that our delegates are safely guided through each course allowing them to explore, what can be upsetting topics, in a safe and controlled environment.
Just as in physical First Aid, support at an early stage can prevent the worsening of an injury, the provision of a “Mental Health First Aider” can also offer such benefits. These include the ability to signpost those in crisis towards a pathway leading to recovery. Worryingly statistics show, before the Coronavirus pandemic that, 25% of all adults will suffer from a mental health issue every year, costing the UK economy millions in lost working time.
What are the benefits of Mental Health First Aid training to your organisation?
Mental Health issues are a major factor influencing the well-being of our staff. By developing our awareness and understanding of the effects of Mental Health issues on our workforce we can provide a holistic approach to supporting our staff. The benefits include:
- Retain skills by reducing staff turnover
Almost a third (31%) of staff said that they would consider leaving their current role within the next 12 months if stress levels in their organisation did not improve. - Cut sickness absence
Mental health issues such as stress, depression, or anxiety account for almost 70 million days off sick per year, the most of any health condition, costing the UK economy between £70-£100 billion per year. - Reduce presenteeism
The annual cost of mental health-related presenteeism (people coming to work and underperforming due to ill health) is £15.1 billion or £605 per employee in the UK. - Demonstrate a commitment to corporate social responsibility
Work-related mental ill health costs UK employers up to £26 billion every year through lost working days, staff turnover and lower productivity. However, many business leaders still admit to prejudice against people with mental health issues in their organisation. - Decrease likelihood of grievance and discrimination claims from unhappy staff
Grievances or more simply: ‘concerns, problems or complaints that employees raise with their employers’, are on the rise. - Ensure compliance with legislation by understanding the law
If a mental health issue has adverse effects on someone’s ability to perform day-to-day tasks, this is considered a disability protected under the Equality Act 2010. Employers have a duty not to discriminate and to make reasonable adjustments in the workplace. - Ensure a healthier workplace
On average, employees take 7 days off work a year for health reasons and it is estimated that mental health issues account for 40% of this figure. Yet up to 90% feel unable to be honest about this being the reason for their absence. - Improve staff morale
60% of employees say they would feel more motivated and more likely to recommend their organisation as a good place to work if their employer took action to support mental health and wellbeing. - Increase staff engagement and commitment
“Supporting mental health in the workplace is not just a corporate responsibility, staff who have positive mental health are more productive and businesses who promote a progressive approach to mental health can see a significant impact on business performance, so it’s about good business too.” – Dr Justin Varney, National Lead for Adult Health and Wellbeing, Public Health England - Optimise performance
There is a strong link between levels of staff wellbeing and performance. Taking a positive, proactive approach to mental health at work can help you grow your staff and your organisation.
Our programmes can be delivered at our training centres either on-line, via distance learning or face to face. Or if you prefer within your own organisation or venue of your choice.