Monday, 10th of October is World Mental Health Day, a chance to talk about mental health in general, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to talk about things and get help if you are struggling.
World Mental Health Day was founded by The Mental Health Foundation 22 years ago.
The day is a chance to talk about mental health in general, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to talk about things and get help if you are struggling.
Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA) have put together a quick My Whole Self MOT for a quick check over of your own and others’ mental health and wellbeing:
If you find yourself in the position of needing to provide mental health first aid to someone you know, or someone you see is in need, Mental Health First Aid England have put together an outline of what to do:
The ALGEE Action Plan
A - Approach: Assess and Assist
Ensuring your own personal safety at all times, approach the person you are concerned about and assess for a crisis by talking to the person while being aware of any warning signs that point to mental health distress, staying calm and seeking emergency medical care if required.
L - Listen and Communicate Non-Judgmentally
Listen to the person and communicate non-judgmentally. Listen without interrupting, ask clarifying questions and avoid glib advice (e.g. cheer-up)
G - Give Support and Information
When you are supporting someone through a mental health crisis, aim to provide both emotional and practical support.
Offer understanding while also encouraging them that help is available. This is when knowing some key support services to recommend and connect them to is helpful (see the contact resources below).
E - Encourage Appropriate Professional Help
Encourage the person to get appropriate professional help. Here are MHFA recommended Crisis Contacts:
- NHS: 999 emergency or nearest A&E department
- 111 Professional health advice 24/7
- Emergency GP Appointment
- Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7 freephone)
- Early Intervention in Psychosis Teams. Click for more information.
- Crisis Resolution Home Treatment Teams: Click for more information.
E - Encourage Other Supports
As well as professional support, encourage seeking support from family and friends, volunteer groups and complementary therapies (e.g., exercise, massage therapy and creative arts).
For more information on how you can support yourself and others’ mental health, visit The Mental Health Foundations’ website:
