Mental Health First Aid Training: Recognizing and Responding to Mental Health Concerns

Amid growing mental health concerns among young people and adults alike, the ability to recognize and respond to mental health struggles has become an essential skill—not just for professionals, but for all of us. According to the World Health Organization, anxiety and depression cases surged by 25% globally in the first year of the pandemic, with long-lasting effects still being felt today. In workplaces, the World Economic Forum estimates that untreated mental health conditions cost the global economy over US$1 trillion annually in lost productivity.

A 2025 NHS-backed study in England found that one in four young people (ages 16–24) now experience a common mental health condition, up from 18.9% in 2014—highlighting the substantial surge in youth mental health needs over the past decade

This Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training will equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to provide immediate, compassionate, and appropriate support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Drawing on over 45 peer-reviewed studies confirming its effectiveness in reducing stigma and improving helping behaviors, MHFA offers a structured, evidence-based approach to early intervention.

Participants will explore the global mental health landscape, understand the core principles and goals of MHFA, and learn practical frameworks such as the 3 Ls—Look, Listen, Link—to guide effective assistance. The session also includes tools like the Self-Care Checklist to maintain personal resilience and covers the 4 Ds of recognizing distress, empowering attendees to be a safe space for others.