MHFA England training for higher education

Protect your students’ wellbeing during these challenging times

Protecting student mental health has never been more critical. At a time of unprecedented uncertainty, the coronavirus pandemic has isolated many from their friends, families and existing support networks and the impact has been devastating. Meeting the urgent needs of these students is daunting. But you’re not alone. We are here to help, and can provide you with the practical skills and know how to spot the signs of mental ill health, minimise triggers and support those in need. Over the last decade we have helped thousands of organisations, including top universities, to protect the wellbeing of those in their care. Today, we are only a phone call away from being able to help you too.

80% of young people say the pandemic has made their mental health worse. 1

40% say that they have not looked for support but know they need it. 1

1. Young Minds, 2020: Coronavirus: Impact on young people with mental health needs

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Build a network of Mental Health First Aiders at your university

Our Mental Health First Aiders course is the only internationally accredited mental health training programme available in the UK.

Over a consolidated period of online learning we can train your people – from accommodation officers and course leaders through to librarians and student union volunteers – to support your students’ mental health, especially during this challenging time. Learning takes place over four interactive live sessions, combined with individual learning activities, and can be tailored to fit around your busy academic timetable. Our courses don’t teach your staff to become therapists. But they do empower them to reassure and respond effectively – potentially stopping a mental health crisis from happening.

HowMental Health First Aiders can support your students and staff At the end of their MHFA England training, your network of Mental Health First Aiders will be able to:

Recognise signs and triggers of mental ill health Reach out and start supportive conversations Guide those in need to find appropriate help for recovery Empower people to develop their own coping strategies

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Why creating a mental health support framework is so important

Social isolation, uncertainty about the future and a lack of normality are compounding already tough academic pressures, financial and relationship issues, and anxieties over being away from home. We can’t afford to be complacent. When a person is experiencing mental health issues, early intervention is critical. Without the right support, people’s long term health and future prospects can be adversely impacted. In the worst cases they can lose hope altogether. But with the right support, the vast majority can find the help they need or develop their own coping strategies for life. Having a qualified Mental Health First Aider ready to support students and staff can mean the all-important difference between a positive and negative outcome. Today we are experiencing a mental health epidemic, with record numbers of people struggling.

26% of 16-24 year olds have had suicidal thoughts. 2

One UK student dies by suicide every four days. 3

"75% of mental health issues start before the age of 18 so we have a lot of students coming in with pre-existing symptoms, needing support. If we can provide the right support for early intervention, students have a better outcome and can engage with their studies here, whether they have a diagnosis or not." Jo Levy, Head of Counselling, Outreach and Training, King’s College London (King’s College London has trained over 650 staff members as Mental Health First Aiders)

2. NHS Digital, 2016: Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey: Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing, England, 2014 3. Office for National Statistics, 2018: Estimating suicide among higher education students, England and Wales

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Staff confidence to help someone experiencing a mental health issue:

17% before course

92% after course

University of York staff survey before and six months after MHFA England training

100% of Anglia Ruskin

"Even if I didn’t feel comfortable with my tutor, I could go to one of the Mental Health First Aiders and say, ‘Look I am struggling and I’m not sure what I should do now’." Student, CU London

University staff trained as Mental Health First Aiders would recommend our course.

MHFA England exists to improve the mental health of the nation. As a social enterprise we want to help you to support students and staff during this challenging time. We have a wide range of training options available and can tailor our programmes to fit your needs, timescales and budgets. And because we believe this training is so critical right now, we’re offering all universities a 15% discount on any training booked in the current academic year.

Get in touch today. Together we can ensure that every student gets the support they need to thrive now and in the future.

[email protected]

0203 928 0760

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