Mental Health First Aid is the initial support offered to someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. This assistance is provided until appropriate professional help is available or the situation resolves.

The Mental Health First Aid (MFHA) course is designed to equip participants with the essential skills needed to give early help to developing mental health problems and assistance in crisis situations. This course is based on international guidelines created through a consensus among mental health consumers, carers, and professionals from English-speaking developed countries.

The topics covered during the course include:

• Mental health problems in Malta
• Mental Health First Aid Action Plan
• Depression
• Anxiety problems
• Psychosis
• Substance use problems
• Mental health crises

The course covers these crisis situations:

• Person who is suicidal or engaging in self-injury
• Person having a panic attack 
• Person who has experienced a traumatic event
• Person in a severe psychotic state
• Person with severe effects from alcohol or other drug use
• Person with aggressive behaviour

By the end of the course, participants will:

• recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health problems in adults;
• use an evidence-based action plan to initiate a mental health first aid conversation;
• assess for a range of crisis situations and provide initial support;
• understand the prevalence and impact of mental illnesses, risk factors and treatments and supports available;
• apply self-care practices as a Mental Health First Aider.

The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) refresher is designed to update and reinforce the knowledge and skills of individuals who have previously completed the initial MHFA course.

This refresher will cover a review of key concepts, updates on current research and best practices, and opportunities to practice applying the MHFA action plan. By completing this refresher it will also help extend the certification for a further three years. 

By completing this refresher participants will:

• Keep up-to-date of the latest research in the mental health field
• Practice applying the MHFA action plan
• Revisit the core principles of mental health first aid
• Practice and reinforce the skills learned in the initial course

By attending this course, certified Mental Health First Aiders will refresh their skills and update their knowledge of current mental health supports and best practices. The session is designed to reinforce confidence in providing first-level support while deepening understanding of the Mental Health First Aider’s role.

Participants will learn to:

• Recognise signs of poor mental health and provide immediate support and early intervention;
• Encourage individuals to seek professional help and access appropriate support networks;
• Practise active listening and demonstrate empathy in sensitive conversations;
• Use inclusive, non-stigmatising language and improve mental health literacy;
• Explore the boundaries of the Mental Health First Aider role, including confidentiality and ethical considerations;
• Develop personal strategies for self-care and wellbeing.

This training supports Mental Health First Aiders in maintaining a safe, supportive environment and contributes to a more mentally healthy workplace.