Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health | RQF level 1

Each year approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health condition and at least 1 in 6 employees experience common mental health problems in the workplace. Research has shown that work is the biggest cause of stress which can stop people performing at their best. Mental health conditions are often hidden due to stigma and fear of discrimination and research has shown that a culture of fear and silence around mental health is costly to employers. The HSE guidance 'First aid needs assessment’ refers to mental health in the workplace.

This 4-hour qualification provides learners with the knowledge to recognise a range of mental health conditions, how to start a supportive conversation and when and how to signpost a person to seek appropriate professional help. Learners will know how to recognise and manage stress. Learners will not diagnose or treat mental health conditions as this can only be carried out by healthcare professionals but will gain the knowledge to identify when a person may have a condition and know where they can go to get help.

Classroom-Based

A minimum of 4 hours spread over at least one day. Ideally, the course should be run in one day, but must be completed within 2 weeks of
starting the course, with each training session a minimum of two hours.

Online/Virtual classroom

The qualification has 2 assigned guided learning hours (GLH) and 5 hours total qualification time (TQT). GLH indicates the number of contact
hours that the learner will have with the trainer/assessor. TQT includes GLH but considers unsupervised learning and is an estimate of how long the average learner will take to achieve the qualification.

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MODULE 1 INTRODUCTION

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‍MODULE 2 WHAT IS FIRST AID FOR MENTAL HEALTH?

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‍MODULE 3 IDENTIFYING MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS

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‍MODULE 4 PROVIDING ADVICE AND STARTING A CONVERSATION

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‍MODULE 5 STRESS

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‍MODULE 6 MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS

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‍MODULE 7 ASSESSMENT AND COURSE CLOSURE

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Upon successful completion of the RQF Level 1 Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health course, participants can expect to achieve the following outcomes:

1. Increased Awareness and Understanding: Participants will develop a basic awareness and understanding of mental health and mental health issues. They will gain knowledge about common mental health conditions, their signs and symptoms, and the importance of mental health in overall well-being.
2. Recognition of Mental Health Signs: Participants will learn to recognize common signs of mental health issues in themselves and others. They will gain an understanding of the importance of early identification and intervention in promoting mental health and seeking appropriate support.
3. Reduced Stigma and Improved Attitudes: The course aims to challenge stigmas and stereotypes associated with mental health. Participants will develop a more empathetic and supportive attitude towards individuals experiencing mental health challenges, promoting a positive and inclusive environment.
4. Enhanced Communication Skills: Participants will learn basic communication skills for engaging with individuals experiencing mental health issues. They will gain an understanding of the importance of active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental communication in providing initial support.
5. Signposting and Seeking Help: Participants will be equipped with knowledge about available resources, services, and support networks for mental health. They will learn about signposting individuals to appropriate professional help and self-help resources.
6. Self-Care and Well-being Strategies: The course may provide participants with practical strategies for maintaining their own mental well-being. They may learn basic self-care techniques and stress management strategies to support their own mental health.
7. Certificate of Completion: Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate indicating their achievement of the RQF Level 1 Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health qualification.

It's important to note that the Level 1 course provides a basic introduction to mental health awareness and first aid. It is not intended to provide participants with the qualifications or skills to diagnose or treat mental health conditions. Instead, it aims to promote mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and provide individuals with the knowledge to offer initial support and signposting to individuals in need.

The Level 1 course can serve as a foundation for further learning and progression in the field of mental health. Individuals may choose to pursue higher-level courses or qualifications to develop more advanced skills and knowledge in mental health first aid or other related areas.

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Here are some examples of who may benefit from attending the RQF Level 1 Award in Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health:

1. Employees and workers: This course is relevant for individuals in any industry who may encounter colleagues or clients experiencing mental health difficulties. It can be particularly valuable for human resources personnel, line managers, supervisors, or team leaders responsible for the well-being of employees.
2. Teachers and educators: Professionals working in schools, colleges, or other educational institutions can benefit from this training to better understand and support the mental health needs of students.
3. Healthcare and social care workers: Individuals working in healthcare or social care settings, such as nurses, care assistants, support workers, or counsellors, can enhance their understanding of mental health issues and improve their ability to provide appropriate support.
4. Community and voluntary workers: People involved in community or voluntary organizations, including youth workers, social workers, volunteers, or community leaders, can gain valuable insights into mental health awareness and support.
5. Personal relationships and caregivers: The Level 1 training can also be beneficial for individuals who have personal relationships with someone experiencing mental health challenges. This may include family members, friends, or caregivers who want to enhance their understanding and offer appropriate assistance.

It is important to note that the Level 1 Award in Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health RQF is an introductory course and does not qualify participants to provide formal mental health interventions or therapy. However, it serves as a foundation for further training and can contribute to creating a more mentally healthy and supportive environment in various settings.

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After completing the RQF Level 1 Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health course, individuals can consider various progression options to further their knowledge and skills in mental health support. Here are some potential pathways:

1. RQF Level 2 Award in First Aid for Mental Health: This qualification builds upon the knowledge gained in the Level 1 course and provides a more comprehensive understanding of mental health issues and how to provide appropriate support. It covers topics such as recognizing mental health conditions, promoting well-being, and providing initial support to those in crisis.
2. RQF Level 3 Award in Supervising First Aid for Mental Health: For individuals who aspire to take on leadership or supervisory roles in mental health support, the Level 3 qualification is a logical progression. It provides in-depth knowledge and skills to supervise and manage a team of individuals providing first aid for mental health.
3. Continued Professional Development (CPD): Engaging in ongoing CPD activities is essential for staying updated with the latest developments in mental health support. Individuals can attend workshops, seminars, or conferences related to mental health, trauma, or specific areas of interest within the field.
4. Applied Practice: Applying the knowledge gained from the Level 1 course in real-world settings is crucial for developing practical skills. Individuals can seek opportunities to work or volunteer in environments where mental health support is needed, such as community organizations, schools, or helplines.
5. Mental Health Support Training Programs: There are various specialized training programs available that focus on specific aspects of mental health support, such as suicide prevention, trauma-informed care, or supporting individuals with specific mental health conditions. These programs can provide individuals with additional expertise and deepen their understanding of specific areas within mental health support.
6. Higher Education: Individuals who wish to pursue a more in-depth study of mental health can consider higher education programs in psychology, counseling, social work, or related fields. These programs provide comprehensive knowledge and training in mental health support and may lead to professional certifications or degrees.

It's important for individuals to research and explore progression options that align with their specific career goals, interests, and local requirements. Different countries or regions may have varying certification or training requirements for mental health support roles, so it's advisable to check with relevant regulatory bodies or professional associations for specific guidance.

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