Mental health awareness is becoming an essential part of creating safer, more supportive workplaces and communities. With several Mental Health First Aid courses available, knowing which option best suits your needs can feel overwhelming. The right choice depends on your role, level of responsibility, and how in-depth you want your training to be. This guide breaks down the main Mental Health First Aid courses to help you decide which one is right for you.

Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health (Level 1)

This entry-level course is ideal for anyone looking to build a basic understanding of mental health. Typically completed in just four hours, it introduces common mental health conditions, helps participants recognise early warning signs, and encourages open conversations around mental wellbeing. It’s a great option for individuals, small teams, or organisations taking their first steps towards improving mental health awareness.

1-Day First Aid for Mental Health (Level 2)

The one-day course offers a more detailed look at mental health and is particularly well-suited to workplaces. Over approximately six hours, participants gain practical skills to identify mental health concerns and confidently support someone who may be struggling. This course also introduces a structured Mental Health Action Plan, giving learners the tools to start supportive conversations, provide reassurance, and guide individuals towards professional help when needed. On completion, participants are recognised as qualified First Aiders for Mental Health.

Supervising First Aid for Mental Health – 2-Day Course (Level 3)

For those in leadership or supervisory roles, the two-day course provides the most comprehensive level of training. It is designed for managers, team leaders, HR professionals, and anyone responsible for employee well-being. In addition to covering mental health conditions in depth, this course focuses on building and maintaining a positive mental health culture within the workplace. Participants learn how to support colleagues through more complex situations and how to implement effective mental health strategies across teams.

Which Course Should You Choose?

• Choose the awareness course if you want a short, accessible introduction to mental health.
• Choose the one-day course if you need practical workplace skills and formal recognition as a Mental Health First Aider.
• Choose the two-day course if you hold a supervisory role or want advanced knowledge to lead mental health initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the courses take?

The awareness course lasts around four hours. The one-day course runs for approximately six hours, while the supervising course is delivered over two days.

Do I need any prior experience?
No previous experience is required for the awareness or one-day courses. The two-day course is best suited to those with leadership or management responsibilities.

Will I receive certification?
Yes. All of the courses provide recognised certification as a First Aider for Mental Health.

Are these courses useful outside of work?
Absolutely. While designed for professional settings, the skills learned are equally valuable for supporting friends, family, and your own mental well-being.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Mental Health First Aid course is an investment in people, not just compliance. Whether you’re building awareness, supporting colleagues, or leading wellbeing initiatives, the right training empowers you to make a meaningful difference in both professional and personal settings. For further details or guidance on selecting a course, email us to speak with one of our friendly team.