On the 8th Day of Christmas the gift I give to thee: Mental Health First Aid.

In Youth MHFA we learn about how to listen and communicate non-judgementally, so we can truly connect with the young person we would like to support.

It is harder than we think to listen to someone without judging them, but we can learn some aspects of it.

First of all it is important to recognise that their problems are not due to weakness or laziness, but that the other person is trying to cope.

Other tips include:

Seek to understand before you seek to be understood.
Give your undivided attention to the speaker.
Use silence effectively.
Try not to be critical.
Do not express frustration at the young person for having such symptoms.
Accept their worries are real for them.

Tameside, Oldham and Glossop Mind are an approved provider of Mental Health First Aid. We are able to deliver on-site at your organisations premises or at our Wellbeing Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne. The course last two days, for between 8 and 16 people.

Provides participants with the skills and confidence to recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues.
Equips people with the skills to guide a person effectively towards the right support services when they are in need.
Challenges stigma and discrimination against those suffering mental health issues.
Enables people to engage better with individuals with mental health issues within their local community.