Mental Health First Aid

Mental health first aid is the help offered to someone experiencing a mental health problem, crisis, or emotional distress until professional support can be arranged.
It focuses on recognising warning signs, offering initial support, and guiding towards appropriate care — much like physical first aid does for medical emergencies.

Summary

Recognise signs of distress early.
Approach with empathy and without judgment.
Offer reassurance and practical support.
Encourage professional help and self-care strategies.
Stay with the person if they are at risk of harm.

Key Principles

Approach without judgment — create a safe, non-critical space.
Listen actively — focus fully, reflect back, and avoid interrupting.
Give reassurance — let them know they are not alone and help is available.
Encourage professional help — GP, psychologist, emergency services if needed.
Promote self-help strategies — breathing techniques, support groups, exercise, journaling, or relaxation.

Common Situations

Anxiety or panic attacks — provide calm reassurance, slow breathing, remove stressors.
Depression — listen, encourage talking, avoid minimising their feelings.
Suicidal thoughts or self-harm — ask directly if they are thinking about suicide; this does not increase risk.
Substance misuse — express concern without blame, encourage safe withdrawal and professional support.
Psychosis (hearing voices, delusions, confusion) — remain calm, avoid confrontation, ensure safety until professional care arrives.

Crisis Actions

Ask directly about suicide if warning signs are present. It is safe to ask:
- “Are you thinking about suicide?”
- “Do you have a plan?”
- “Do you have the means to act on that plan?”
  Answers help gauge urgency and guide your next steps.
Stay with them — never leave someone alone if they may attempt suicide.
Call emergency services (000 in Australia, 911/112 elsewhere) if there is immediate danger.
Provide helpline numbers or crisis text lines (see below).
Encourage follow-up care — ensure they see a doctor or mental health professional as soon as possible.

FAQs

Q: Do I need special qualifications to provide mental health first aid?
A: No. Anyone can learn the basics, but completing a certified Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course provides structured tools and confidence. MHFA training is available worldwide and was founded in Australia.

Q: Is mental health first aid the same as therapy?
A: No. It is immediate, short-term support until the person can access professional help. It does not replace ongoing treatment.

Q: Will asking about suicide put the idea in someone’s head?
A: No. Evidence shows that asking directly about suicidal thoughts can actually reduce risk, as it gives the person a chance to talk openly and feel supported.

Q: What if I say the wrong thing?
A: Showing compassion and a willingness to listen is more important than finding the “perfect” words. Avoid judgment, avoid minimising their feelings, and focus on being present.

⚠️ Mental health crises can be life-threatening.
Always take suicidal thoughts or severe distress seriously. Stay with the person if they are at risk, call emergency services if needed, and encourage professional follow-up care.

Get Help Now

If you or someone you know is in immediate crisis, help is available:

United States: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
United Kingdom: Call 116 123 for Samaritans.
Australia: Call 13 11 14 for Lifeline.
Canada: Call or text 988 for Suicide Crisis Helpline.

If you are outside these regions, please check local emergency numbers or hotlines in your country. You are not alone, and support is available.

References

Mental Health First Aid Australia — official MHFA program and training resources
Mental Health First Aid International — global network of MHFA programs
NHS Mental Health Crisis Advice

Educational only; not a substitute for professional medical advice.