Public Mental Health First Aid

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)?

  Mental Health First Aid is an internationally recognised training programme that teaches people how to identify, understand, and respond to signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis. 

  It doesn't train you to be a therapist, but it does teach you to listen, reassure, and respond, even in crisis situations. Much like the difference between a physical first aider and a paramedic,

• Who is MHFA training for?

  We would recommend MHFA England training for anyone – just as it’s a good idea for people to have basic knowledge of physical first aid. 

  The training is particularly valuable for managers, HR professionals, team leaders, teachers, healthcare workers, parents, first responders and anyone who wants to become a confident Mental Health First Aider in their workplace or community.

• Is MHFA England training accredited?

  Yes, all MHFA England courses are quality assured and accredited. MHFA England is hosted by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH), and the training meets national standards for mental health first aid education.

• What's the difference between MHFA and Youth MHFA?

  MHFA focuses on supporting adults aged 18+, while Youth MHFA is designed for those working with young people aged 8-18 and covers adolescent mental health issues specifically.

• Is the course difficult or upsetting?

  The course covers sensitive topics, but our MHFA England Instructors are highly trained to deliver content with care and create a safe learning environment. You can take breaks whenever needed, and the course is designed to be supportive and empowering.

• What's the difference between classroom and online courses?

  Both formats cover the same content and are equally accredited. In-person courses offer face-to-face interaction, while online courses provide flexibility and eliminate travel time. Choose whichever suits your learning style and circumstances.

• What is the MHFAider Support App?

  The MHFAider Support App is a digital resource exclusively for certified Mental Health First Aiders. It provides quick reference guides, conversation starters, signposting information, and tools to support your role as an MHFAider.

• Do I have to attend the whole course?

  You need to complete all parts of the course to receive a certificate of attendance. All parts of the course are equally important to learn a safe grounding in Mental Health First Aider skills.

• Do I get a qualification at the end of the course?

  Upon successful completion and attendance of the full course, you'll receive an MHFA England certificate valid for three years. 

  You will also have the opportunity to embed your learning further with the optional RSPH Level 3 Award in Mental Health First Aid.

• Do I need to renew my training?

  Like physical first aid, your MHFA England training is valid for three years. We recommend that Mental Health First Aiders attend an MHFA Refresher course every three years to renew their skills, update their knowledge of mental health supports, and practice applying the Mental Health First Aid action plan.

• I have more questions!

  We are happy to help! Contact us at enquiries@changingmindstraining.com or 07751 138523.