Why Every Workplace Needs AT LEAST One Mental Health First Aider

We have first aid kits for physical injuries. We have fire wardens for emergencies. We have health and safety officers to prevent trips and falls. But what do we have for the "invisible" crises that happen at desks, in workplaces, or behind home office screens every single day?

We need people within the workplace who can spot signs of mental ill health and start a conversation.

The numbers tell a staggering story. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) 2023/24 report, stress, depression, or anxiety accounts for 49% of all work-related ill health cases and a massive 54% of all working days lost due to ill health in Great Britain. We aren't just talking about a few "off days"—we are talking about an epidemic of workplace burnout.

To build a truly resilient culture, it is no longer enough to have an EAP (Employee Assistance Program) phone number buried on the company intranet. You need a human connection. You need at least one—and ideally a network—of Mental Health First Aiders. Here is why...

1. Breaking the Silence and Reducing Stigma

The biggest hurdle to mental health support in the workplace isn't a lack of professional services; it’s the fear of speaking up. Many employees still fear that admitting to stress will be seen as a "weakness" or impact their career progression.

A First Aider for Mental Health acts as a visible signal that your organisation takes wellbeing seriously. When staff know there is a designated person trained to listen without judgment, the stigma begins to dissolve. It creates a culture where "it’s okay not to be okay," which is the first step toward recovery.

2. Early Intervention Saves Lives (and Budgets)

Just like physical first aid, the goal of a First Aider for Mental Health (FAMH) is not to "treat" or "diagnose." Instead, it is about early intervention.

Deloitte’s 2024 Mental Health Report found that for every £1 spent by employers on mental health interventions, they get an average return of £4.70 in reduced presenteeism, absenteeism, and staff turnover. FAMHs are trained to spot the subtle warning signs—changes in behaviour, withdrawal, or decreased productivity—before they escalate into a long-term crisis.

By identifying issues early, you aren't just doing the "right thing"—you are protecting your bottom line.

3. Bridging the Gap to Professional Support

Most managers are not therapists, and they shouldn't be. However, many managers feel terrified of "saying the wrong thing" when an employee is struggling.

A Mental Health First Aider is equipped with a specific framework to:

• Listen non-judgmentally.

• Assess the risk of harm or suicide.

• Signpost the individual towards professional help, whether that’s the NHS, a charity, or internal company resources.

This "bridge" ensures that the employee doesn't feel lost in the system and that the organisation is fulfilling its legal and ethical duty of care.

4. Self-Care for the Organisation

When you have a trained FAMH on-site (or virtually), it takes the pressure off the rest of the leadership team. It ensures that when a sensitive situation arises, there is a clear protocol to follow.

In my Supervisor Training Programme, I emphasise that "Self-Care for Supervisors" is critical. Having a designated MHFA ensures that managers aren't carrying the emotional weight of their entire team alone. It distributes the responsibility for wellbeing, making the entire organisation more sustainable.

The Takeaway on Mental Health First Aid

Mental health is not a "soft" issue; it is a core business function. Investing in Mental Health First Aid training isn't just a "nice to have"—it is a strategic move to protect your most valuable asset: your people.

Is your workplace prepared for a mental health crisis?

If you don't yet have a designated First Aider for Mental Health, or if your current team needs a refresher on how to handle these delicate conversations, I can help. I deliver these sessions live via Zoom, ensuring your team can practice these sensitive conversations in a safe, guided environment.

Next Steps

Learn more about our Mental Health Courses: Click here to see our range of Ofqual-regulated First Aid for Mental Health Courses. All available live via Zoom.

Explore Our CPD Hub: Our hub contains resources on mental resilience and workplace wellbeing available 24/7. Click Here to Learn more about our CPD Training Hub.