Supporting Employee Well-being: The Role of Mental Health First Aiders in the Workplace

The average person will spend 90,000 hours at work in their lifetime. Not only can poor mental health present at work but the workplace can contribute to – or make worse any pre-existing condition. People who experience poor mental health can struggle with reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and overall job dissatisfaction. As an employer, it is crucial to prioritise mental health support and create a work environment that encourages employee well-being – not just because of the advantages it brings to the organisation but because it demonstrates a supportive and caring culture.

One approach to addressing mental health in the workplace is the introduction of mental health first aiders. It’s something that we at The Survey Initiative have recently embraced when two employees undertook MHFA training via Essex Working Well (where we recently attained level 2 in our certification).

What is a Mental Health First Aider?

A mental health first aider is an employee who has been trained to provide initial support and assistance to colleagues experiencing mental health problems or crises. Just as ‘traditional’ first aiders are trained to respond to physical emergencies, mental health first aiders are equipped to recognise the signs of mental distress and take appropriate action.

The role of a mental health first aider is to:

1. Recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and stress.
2. Approach and listen to employees who may be struggling with their mental health.
3. Provide initial support and signpost the individual to professional help if needed.
4. Promote a culture of openness and understanding around mental health in the workplace.

Mental health first aiders are not expected to be mental health professionals or therapists; their role is to be a friendly, non-judgmental, and supportive presence for their colleagues.

How Mental Health First Aiders Contribute to a Supportive Workplace

Mental health first aiders play a vital role in creating a more supportive and resilient workplace. By being present and available to their colleagues, they can:

1. Reduce stigma and promote openness: Their presence sends a clear message that the organisation values employee mental health and is committed to providing support.
2. Intervene early and prevent escalation: They help employees access the support they need before issues escalate.
3. Foster a culture of care and empathy: Their empathetic and non-judgmental approach can help create a workplace culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns.
4. Improve employee wellbeing and productivity: They contribute to improved overall well-being, job satisfaction, and productivity.
5. Enhance organisational resilience: A workforce that is supported and equipped to manage mental health challenges is more likely to be resilient in the face of workplace stressors and changes.

Overall, the presence of mental health first aiders can have a transformative impact on the workplace, creating a more supportive, inclusive, and mentally healthy environment for all employees.

Conclusion: The Impact of Mental Health First Aiders on Employee Well-being

The presence of mental health first aiders in the workplace can have a profound and lasting impact on employee well-being. By providing a compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive presence, these individuals can help to:

1. Reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
2. Encourage open and honest conversations about mental health.
3. Intervene early to prevent mental health problems from escalating.
4. Connect employees with the professional support and resources they need.
5. Foster a culture of care, empathy, and resilience within the organisation.

As organisations continue to prioritise the well-being of their workforce, the role of mental health first aiders will become increasingly crucial. By investing in this approach, you can demonstrate your commitment to supporting your employees and creating a healthier, more productive, and more resilient workplace. To learn more visit:  https://mhfaengland.org