Mental Health First Aid in the Workplace

  October 9, 2024

SEB Marketing Team

Mental health challenges have always existed, affecting employees across all levels of an organization. From anxiety to trauma-related disorders, substance-related issues, and even psychotic disorders, the spectrum of mental health concerns is wide and complex. While many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), few are prepared to handle mental health crises as they arise.

The truth is, that mental health issues don’t come with a warning, and employers need to be equipped to provide immediate support. Workplaces are social environments, where diverse personalities converge, stressors abound and demands continue to increase. Mental health issues, if left unaddressed, can significantly affect employee wellbeing, productivity, and, ultimately, the overall health of an organization. Innovative companies are increasingly considering Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), a training program that prepares employees to recognize the signs of mental health challenges and provide initial, practical support before professional help is available. It’s the emotional equivalent of knowing CPR—essential for every workplace.

Here’s why your organization—whether large, small, or mid-sized—should consider training employees in Mental Health First Aid.

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an internationally recognized evidence-based training program that teaches employees to recognize and address various mental health challenges. Just as physical first aid provides initial help in a medical emergency, MHFA equips staff to offer immediate support when mental health concerns arise.

By learning to spot issues early and gaining knowledge of appropriate, reliable resources—rather than just well-meaning advice—employees become better equipped to assist in potentially life-saving ways. In the workplace, this can mean the difference between an employee receiving timely support and suffering in silence, causing lasting impacts on their mental and physical wellbeing. Given the current state of mental health in the workforce, it’s clear that businesses can no longer afford to sit on the sidelines. Here’s why.

Why Employees Need Training in Mental Health First Aid

Early Intervention Can Save Lives: Mental health issues often start with subtle signs—withdrawal from social interactions, fatigue, changes in work quality, or visible anxiety. Yet, without proper training, these signs can be easily overlooked or misunderstood. Early intervention can prevent a mental health issue from escalating into a crisis.

Reducing Stigma Around Mental Health: Despite evolving conversations about mental health, stigma remains a significant barrier. Employees may fear judgment or negative consequences for sharing their struggles. Training staff in MHFA normalizes discussions about mental health, helping to break down these stigmas and promoting a more open and supportive work environment. Team members feel more comfortable discussing their struggles and seeking help, which contributes to better overall mental health for the entire workforce.

Increased Productivity and Reduced Absenteeism: Mental health challenges have direct impacts on productivity. When employees are struggling, their performance suffers. By training your team in MHFA, you’re investing in the long-term productivity of your business. A mentally healthy workplace is a more productive one. Employees who feel supported are less likely to call in sick or take extended leaves. They also experience fewer distractions, remain engaged with their work, and are more likely to contribute positively to their teams.

Creating a Supportive Culture Attracts and Retains Talent: As the workplace culture continues to evolve, organizations are recognizing the value of fostering supportive, inclusive environments. Businesses that prioritize mental health support also stand out in the competitive race to attract and retain top talent who are seeking workplaces that demonstrate genuine care for employee health—both physical and mental. By training your workforce in Mental Health First Aid, you’re sending a clear message that your organization prioritizes employee wellbeing, making it a more attractive and supportive place to work. Not to mention, employees who are more adept at managing not only their own mental wellbeing but also that of their colleagues make your workplace more resilient and adaptive in the face of challenges.

Shifting the Way, We Talk About Mental Health and Substance Use

Meaningful change in the workplace around mental health begins with shifting the way we talk about these issues. Mental health challenges—whether they involve anxiety, trauma, substance use, or psychotic disorders—are not weaknesses or personal failings. They are health conditions, and like physical health conditions, they require proper care, attention, and support.

Mental Health First Aid training is a step in changing the conversation away from vague advice and toward equipping your workforce with evidence-based tools and resources. This promotes the dismantling of stigma and encourages a workplace culture that treats mental health with the seriousness it deserves. As awareness around mental health issues becomes more prominent, businesses must take proactive steps to support their employees.

Training your workforce in Mental Health First Aid isn’t just an investment in the well-being of your employees—it’s an investment in the long-term success and resilience of your organization. As we recognize World Mental Health Day, let’s make a commitment to creating workplaces that prioritize mental health, reduce stigma, and foster supportive environments. Equip your team with the tools they need to provide early intervention and create a culture where mental health is valued.