The Importance and Need for First Aiders for Mental Health in the Workplace

In recent years, the conversation around mental health has evolved significantly. As more people recognize the importance of mental well-being, businesses are also waking up to the critical need for addressing mental health in the workplace.

At Slanjava Learning Ltd., we are dedicated to empowering organisations with the tools and knowledge to support their employees. One of the most effective ways to do this is by training First Aiders for Mental Health.

First Aid for Mental Health

Understanding the Need

The prevalence of mental health issues in the workplace is substantial. According to the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE), work-related stress, depression, or anxiety accounted for 51% of all work-related ill health in 2019/20, with an estimated 828,000 workers affected. This statistic alone underscores the urgent need for effective mental health support within the workplace.

The Role of First Aiders for Mental Health

First Aiders for Mental Health are trained to recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues. They provide initial support and guide colleagues towards appropriate professional help. This role is as vital as physical first aid, given that mental health issues can be just as debilitating as physical injuries, if not more so.

Benefits of Having Mental Health First Aiders

1. Early Intervention: Mental Health First Aiders are equipped to identify early signs of mental health challenges. Early intervention can prevent problems from escalating, which is crucial for both the individual and the organisation.
   

2. Creating a Supportive Environment: The presence of Mental Health First Aiders helps create a culture of openness and support. Employees feel more comfortable discussing their mental health concerns, knowing that there is trained support available.
   

3. Reducing Stigma: Training employees in mental health first aid helps to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. It normalizes conversations about mental well-being and promotes a healthier, more inclusive workplace culture.
   

4. Improving Productivity: Addressing mental health issues can lead to reduced absenteeism and presenteeism. According to the Centre for Mental Health (2020), mental health problems in the UK workforce cost employers up to £45 billion each year. By supporting mental health proactively, companies can enhance overall productivity and employee satisfaction.

First Aid for Mental Health | Thomas Ihde

Statistics Supporting the Need

The importance of mental health first aid is further backed by compelling statistics:

• The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD, 2020) found that mental ill health is the primary cause of long-term sickness absence in UK workplaces.

• The Mental Health Foundation (2021) reports that 1 in 6.8 people experience mental health problems in the workplace (14.7% of the population).

• A study by Deloitte UK (2020) highlighted that for every £1 invested in mental health, employers get £5 back in reduced presenteeism, absenteeism, and staff turnover.

How Slanjava Learning Ltd. Can Help?

At Slanjava Learning Ltd., we offer comprehensive training programmes to equip employees with the skills and confidence to become effective First Aiders for Mental Health. Our courses cover a wide range of topics, including recognising signs of mental health issues, providing initial support, and guiding individuals towards appropriate help.

Investing in mental health first aid training is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic decision that benefits both employees and the organisation as a whole. By fostering a supportive and proactive approach to mental health, companies can create a more resilient and productive workforce.

Conclusion

The need for First Aiders for Mental Health in the workplace is clear. With the right training and support, organisations can make a significant difference in the mental well-being of their employees. At Slanjava Learning Ltd., we are committed to helping you create a healthier, more supportive workplace.

Interested in learning more? You can book onto one of our accredited First Aid for Mental Health courses by calling 0141 459 0894 or emailing hello@slanjavalearning.co.uk

Kind regards,

Slanjava Learning

-slàinte mhath-

The information provided is for guidance and not a substitute for medical advice. The author bears no liability for inaccuracies or mistreatment, and professional medical consultation is advised.

#mentalhealth #mentalhealthfirstaid #training

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References:

Centre for Mental Health, 2020. Mental Health at Work: The Business Costs 10 Years On. [online] Available at: https://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/publications/mental-health-work-business-costs-ten-years [Accessed 1 July 2024].

Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), 2020. Health and Well-being at Work Survey Report. [online] Available at: https://www.cipd.co.uk/knowledge/culture/well-being/health-well-being-work [Accessed 1 July 2024].

Deloitte UK, 2020. Mental health and employers: Refreshing the case for investment. [online] Available at: https://www2.deloitte.com/uk/en/pages/consulting/articles/mental-health-and-employers-refreshing-the-case-for-investment.html [Accessed 1 July 2024].

Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 2020. Work-related stress, anxiety or depression statistics in Great Britain, 2020. [online] Available at: https://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/causdis/stress.pdf [Accessed 1 July 2024].

Mental Health Foundation, 2021. Mental Health Statistics: Mental Health at Work. [online] Available at: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/statistics/mental-health-statistics-mental-health-work [Accessed 1 July 2024].