Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) – First Aid for Mental Health

Mental health is a key concern for individuals and workplaces. Developed by the Ligue Luxembourgeoise d’Hygiène Mentale a.s.b.l., this Mental Health First Aid course equips participants to recognise early signs of mental distress, offer initial support and, where appropriate, guide the person towards professional help. Open to individuals and professionals, the training also seeks to reduce stigma and encourage supportive responses in crisis situations.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Provide initial assistance to adults experiencing mental health problems.
  

• Recognise signs of common and potentially disabling mental health conditions, including substance-related problems, depression, anxiety, trauma-related difficulties and psychotic disorders, without attempting to diagnose them.
  

• Approach an adult who may be experiencing mental health difficulties and assess whether the person may be in crisis.
  

• Apply the five-step first aid approach taught during the course.
  

Module 1

• Understanding mental health
  

• The five-step mental health first aid approach (ROGER)
  

• Depression

Module 2

• First aid for suicidal thoughts or behaviours

• Applying ROGER to depression
  

• Anxiety disorders

Module 3

• First aid for panic attacks and following traumatic events
  

• Applying ROGER to anxiety disorders
  

• Substance use-related disorders
  

• First aid for severe effects of substance use

Module 4

• Applying ROGER to substance use
  

• Psychosis
  

• First aid for severe psychotic episodes
  

• Applying ROGER to psychosis
  

Anyone aged 18 or over who wishes to become a mental health first aider.

A combination of theory and practical exercises, supported by videos and role-play or scenario-based activities. Course materials are made available after the corresponding modules.

Attendance to all 12 training hours is mandatory to receive a certificate valid for five years.