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Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training is designed to help individuals recognise and respond to mental health challenges in others. The Scotland’s Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA) course, developed by Public Health Scotland, has specific learning objectives that focus on awareness, intervention and support

Course information

about the course

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a nationally recognised course designed to give participants the knowledge, skills and confidence to support someone experiencing a mental health challenge. Grounded in Scotland’s Mental Health First Aid framework, the course takes a practical, stigma-reducing approach that empowers individuals to recognise early signs of distress, respond appropriately and signpost to the right support.

Throughout this training, participants will explore a range of mental health conditions and how they can affect thinking, feeling and behaviour. You’ll learn how to open sensitive conversations, listen without judgement and offer initial reassurance while maintaining your own boundaries. The session also explores the responsibilities and limits of the Mental Health First Aider role, helping you stay grounded and effective without overstepping.

By using realistic examples, accessible language and up-to-date insights into Scotland’s mental health services, this course prepares individuals to act with calmness, compassion and confidence when it matters most. Whether you’re supporting a colleague, friend or member of the public, MHFA equips you with the tools to make a meaningful difference.

 

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by the end of this session

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