A quarter of us will experience at least one mental health problem in any one year, and yet stigma and prejudice are still widespread.

In recognition of this hidden health crisis, The Royal Society for Public Health has accredited the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training programme in England, developed to establish a network of people with the skills and knowledge to take this essential first aid training into the community.

Mental health problems can affect people at any time, in different ways, and many suffer in silence for a long time before eventually seeking help. The MHFA course trains people to recognise the symptoms of mental health problems, shows how to offer initial help to those affected, and provides information about professional support.

MHFA supports the government’s well-being agenda which highlights the importance of early intervention. Trainees on mental health first aid courses work in many different settings, including commercial organisations, teaching, police and prison services.

Fionuala Bonnar, programme director for Mental Health Services and Improvement, London Development Centre, part of Commissioning Support for London, said: “The MHFA course instructors are a vital link in our work to promote awareness of mental health problems. RSPH accreditation for our instructors’ programme shows that our courses are delivered to the RSPH’s very high standards, giving additional confidence to instructors, trainees and the public.”

RSPH chief executive professor Richard Parish comments: “Many people are familiar with first aid for physical health, but there is a much more limited understanding of first aid for mental health. Early recognition of mental health problems can make all the difference to the outcome for individuals and their families, and the mental health first aid course gives trainees the practical knowledge to help identify anyone who may need professional help. Excellent training for these instructors is essential to the success of this much needed work. RSPH accreditation confirms the high quality of the instructor training programme and I congratulate all those involved in achieving this recognition.”

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