What to expect

Scottish Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a nationally recognised course designed to give participants the knowledge, skills and confidence to support someone experiencing a mental health challenge. Grounded in Scotland’s Mental Health First Aid framework, the course takes a practical, stigma-reducing approach that empowers individuals to recognise early signs of distress, respond appropriately and signpost to the right support.

What's covered in the course?

Throughout this training, participants will explore a range of mental health conditions and how they can affect thinking, feeling and behaviour. You’ll learn how to open sensitive conversations, listen without judgement and offer initial reassurance while maintaining your own boundaries.

The session also explores the responsibilities and limits of the Mental Health First Aider role, helping you stay grounded and effective without overstepping.

By using realistic examples, accessible language and up-to-date insights into Scotland’s mental health services, this course prepares individuals to act with calmness, compassion and confidence when it matters most. Whether you’re supporting a colleague, friend or member of the public, MHFA equips you with the tools to make a meaningful difference.

By the end of the session, Particicipants will be able to:

Apply Mental Health First Aid: Use the five-step approach to provide initial support to someone experiencing mental distress or a mental health crisis.
Recognise signs of mental health problems: Identify common symptoms and understand how factors like alcohol, drugs and stigma can influence mental wellbeing.
Respond to risk of suicide: Offer appropriate support to individuals who may be at risk of suicide or self-harm, using calm, non-judgemental communication.
Offer reassurance within role boundaries: Provide practical help and emotional support while understanding and maintaining the limits of the Mental Health First Aider role.
Signpost to further support: Direct individuals to appropriate professional or community-based services to ensure continued care and recovery.

Scottish Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA) Training by Change Mental Health