What is Mental Health First Response ?
ExMet Mental Health First Response® was developed around a simple observation:
When somebody is struggling, the first person they speak to is rarely a mental health professional.
It's more likely to be a colleague, friend, supervisor, manager or somebody they happen to trust.
That person doesn't need to become a counsellor.
But knowing how to notice, approach, listen and respond by signposting someone to appropriate support can matter enormously.
Our training exists to help people become that person and gives them the knowledge to be able to provide appropriate support to individuals
That's what a Mental Health First Responder is. They are sometimes called Mental Health First Aiders - it's exactly the same
From Awareness to Response
We have become much better at talking about mental health.
Organisations increasingly recognise the importance of employee wellbeing and people are encouraged to check in with one another.
But there is still an important question.
What happens after somebody asks:
“Are you okay?”
And the answer is:
“...Actually… no"
What do I say now?
What if they become upset?
What if I say the wrong thing?
Where does my responsibility end?
Not simply awareness...Practical response
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A Simple Approach to a Difficult Conversation
NOTICE
Recognise when something may have changed.
CONNECT
Create an opportunity for a conversation.
LISTEN
Give somebody time and space to talk without judgement.
SUPPORT
Explore what might help without trying to fix everything.
SIGNPOST
Know when and how to encourage appropriate further support.