The SMHFA course takes 12 hours to complete. This course is run over 2 days, and both days must be fully attended to complete each section and receive your certificate and qualification.

The knowledge presented and understanding developed in the course helps to remove stigma and fear and to give confidence in approaching a person in distress. It offers basic general information about mental health problems, not to be mental health workers.

The following is a brief outline of what is covered on the course:

• Guidance on being a Mental Health First Aider

• Attitudes to mental health issues

• Equalities

• The recovery message

• The impact of alcohol and drugs on mental health

• Introduction to suicide intervention

• Listening skills

• Understanding depression

• How to offer first aid to someone experiencing anxiety

• Understanding psychosis

• How to offer first aid to someone experiencing a psychotic episode

Mental Health First Aid is an initial response to distress and all participants on the course understand that this help is given only until other suitable or professional help can be found.