MHFA - Crisis First Aid

In addition to the umbrella intervention provided by ALGEE (Assess Risk, Listen non-judgementally, Give reassurance, Encourage referral to other agencies, Encourage self-help strategies), MHFA has strong and clear guidelines for crisis intervention. From MHFA:

       Crisis First Aid for someone experiencing an acute psychotic episode

• Do not get involved physically
• Call the police and explain what is happening, unless the person has a mental health crisis card with clear steps describing how you can help.
• Try to create a calm, non-threatening atmosphere.
• Be reassuring, calm and concerned.
• Do not try to reason with someone who is experiencing acute psychosis.
• Express empathy for the person’s emotional distress.
• Comply with reasonable requests.

Mental Health First Aid In Action

Testimonials and Feedback

MHFA Training delivered by Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind on behalf of the NE Mind Partnership have trained over 1800 individuals with outstanding feedback and results.

Mental Health First Aiders were asked for there stories on how MHFA has helped them. These are just a small selection;

I use MHFA daily, for example I had a tenant suffering a psychotic episode which I felt confident to deal with

I have used MHFA when a young Mum came into the centre and told me she felt like ending it all

I use it on a daily basis with clients and colleagues and feel I have made a real difference

I have a work colleague who suffers from epilepsy and associated depression and anxiety. I used ALGEE and offered advice and guidance over the phone.