Even though they are a relatively new concept, mental health first aiders can be found at thousands of businesses and organisations across the UK.

They are usually existing staff who have been given varying levels of training in the role. However, even though they can be a valuable resource for companies there are also some drawbacks.

One of the main problems is that mental health first aiders (MHFA) are usually employees who are supporting their fellow colleagues. Opening up and discussing your health and well-being, such as problems at home and work, may be something that employees don’t want to do with someone they share an office with.

Also, while mental health first aiders can help identify and address any concerns, they can then feel there is nowhere to turn. Referring employees to an NHS service means that while the problem has been discovered, it may take weeks or months before it is dealt with properly.

Even though a new law has recently been presented to parliament requiring businesses to offer mental health first aid training, research on MHFAs has been inconclusive. Findings show that there is still insufficient evidence that MHFAs are actually able provide the right support for those that need it most. Also, while there is no national framework then employee mental health does run the risk of being just a tick-box exercise.

Thankfully an EAP service, such as The Listening Centre, will be able to quickly offer the support needed from experienced and fully-qualified counsellors.

We know there are other benefits and drawbacks to mental health first aiders. Here we look at both, as well as some of the solutions that can be put in place.

Benefits of mental health first aiders

1, Mental health first aiders can play an important role in promoting good mental health in any organisation. This includes highlighting awareness events such as Mental Health Awareness Week, Time to Talk Day and Stress Awareness Month.

2, If they are sufficiently trained it is possible they can manage a range of mental health issues with tact, sensitivity and respect. They can help members of staff to cope during difficult times, and refer individuals to further support.

3, Mental health first aiders help businesses and organisations to understand the importance of creating positive working environments, where staff feel supported and valued. This can encourage healthy and productive work relationships between staff and management.

4, The presence of first aiders can help individuals feel less ashamed of their mental illness by creating an environment that helps destigmatise it. Mental health first aiders can act as positive role models and promote the message that voices should never go unheard.

5, Companies that demonstrate a commitment to the emotional needs of their employees will not only increase morale but foster loyalty. Having a mental health first aider on staff has benefits for both employer and employee, which may make it a worthwhile investment for an organisation.

Downsides to mental health first aiders

1, They may not have the training and qualifications to fully understand and address all the problems they are faced with. Without proper knowledge and resources, first aiders may be unaware of how to approach certain situations in an effective manner. This could lead to potential escalation of the problem and further distress to the person if it hasn’t been addressed appropriately.

2, Mental health first aiders can be overwhelmed by too many requests for help, or with difficult situations that they may not have the expertise to manage. This is where having the support of an EAP service can be invaluable.

3, There is a need to remain impartial when providing assistance, but this can be difficult for mental health first aiders when dealing with fellow colleagues. If health issues are caused by a disagreement between colleagues this could prove to be a difficult situation for an employee to deal with.

4, Mental health first aiders will need ongoing support and guidance from management in order to be successful. Without this essential backing, they may not have access to everything they need to do their job effectively.

5, Perhaps one of the greatest barriers to their success is the stigma of telling your close colleague and possible friend of your issues. The last thing many workers would want to do is tell their fellow colleagues their greatest fears and worries for fear of coming across as weak or inadequate. There is also the issue of seniority and status – imagine a director approaching a junior office worker several rungs below them and explaining that they can’t cope with coming into the office anymore.

Most of the disadvantages of mental health first aiders can be instantly addressed by bringing in a local EAP, such as The Listening Centre. EAP counsellors are required to be fully trained according to certain regulatory standards. Also, as they are from outside the company, employees will not have concerns about opening up to someone they trust will be totally professional and confidential.

Where mental health first aiders could be effective is providing the initial port of call for staff worries, for example sharing a cup of tea to express their concerns. Anything more serious that cannot be quickly resolved, so it is best handled by the experts at an EAP provider. 

Conclusion

Mental health first aiders can be an important resource for employees struggling with mental health issues in the workplace. They provide support and help to destigmatise mental health, which can be invaluable for those who are struggling. However, they should not be seen as a replacement for proper assessment and treatment from a qualified and fully trained EAP provider.

Local EAPs such as The Listening Centre employ full-time counsellors dedicated to promoting and supporting employees’ physical and mental well-being, optimising their attendance while enhancing their engagement and performance at work. All their counsellors are professionally qualified and backed up by many years of service, helping many different types of organisations.

To find out more about the services The Listening Centre provides email enquiry@thelisteningcentre.co.uk or call 01543 300068.