Mental Health First Aid: What Is It?
As we mark World Mental Health Day, it’s an important reminder that looking after our minds is just as vital as looking after our bodies. At Bell Ingram, we’re proud to have trained Mental Health First Aiders across the business – colleagues who are there to listen, offer reassurance, and signpost support when someone is struggling.
In this blog, we speak with one of our Mental Health First Aiders, Hamish Hope, about what the role involves, why mental health awareness matters in the workplace, especially in rural settings, and how small actions can make a big difference.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your role as a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) at Bell Ingram
A: As a Mental Health First Aider, my role is to be the first point of contact for colleagues who may be experiencing metal health challenges, stress or general emotional distress. I am here to listen, reassure and guide them towards suitable professional support or self-help resources. MHFAs are also here to promote awareness of mental health within the firm and to reiterate that it is okay to not be okay.
Q: What made you want to become a Mental Health First Aider?
A: I have seen and experienced firsthand how mental health can impact people’s day to day lives. I want our colleagues to know that if they are going through something, that they are not alone and that they are supported.
Q: For people who might not know, what does a Mental Health First Aider actually do?
A: It is similar to a physical first aider. We’re here for initial support only until professional guidance is needed. Similar to how a physical first aider may do an initial assessment and do what they can before someone can be seen to by a doctor. We’re here to listen and point people in the right direction for the help they need.
Q: Why do you think having MHFAs in the workplace is important?
A: We are all people who go through ups and downs. Though we may try and keep any issues separate from work, it can get to the point that personal problems start to impact work which can make those individuals feel even more stressed or down. Having a supportive work environment which promotes good mental health benefits both personal and professional aspects of our lives.
Q: What are some of the particular challenges when it comes to mental health in rural working environments?
A: In rural areas, access to professional services can be more limited and the work places can be seen as more traditional with potential stigmas against mental health. People who are in these rural environments often work long days and may just do what they can do get through the day without realising that it is having a detrimental effect on their health. We support clients and their staff is isolated locations where the only community available are tied to the same work place which can cause people to be hesitant to open up and ask for support as they worry their employment may be affected.
Q: How do you support colleagues who may be struggling?
A: It really is just being there for them and listening. Small gestures, which everyone can do, can go a long way such as regularly checking in and asking them how they are. We have contact details for various organisations for different mental health problems that can offer further guidance or professional help.
Q: What would you say to a colleague who is hesitant to talk about their mental health at work?
A: That it is okay to be hesitant as it can be difficult to open up but I would reassure them that it is also okay to not be okay. Talking about it will help and sharing their burdens will go a long way to improve their situation. Everyone, at all levels, will have experienced either directly or indirectly some sort of mental health issue so they are not alone. Bell Ingram is very open about mental health and our mental health first aiders genuinely care and want to help.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about being a Mental Health First Aider?
A: To know that someone who may have been feeling alone or down has taken the first step to getting help. One conversation can make a huge difference and I am always happy to listen.
Q: Finally, what’s one small step people can take today to look after their own mental health?
A: Slow down and take a moment to check in with yourself to assess how you’re feeling.