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Mental Health First Aid Support

Medium 18 items · 30 min
testuser's avatar
testuser Published 4 months ago
Health

A practical checklist to guide non-specialists in calmly supporting someone in mental distress, with steps for safe listening, risk assessment, and follow-up. Inspired by World Health Organization guidelines on Mental Health First Aid Support. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Inspired by World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional where applicable.

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  1. Create a calm private space — Find a quiet spot, sit at the same level, and limit interruptions.
  2. Introduce yourself and explain your role — Say your name and that you're there to listen and help, not to judge.
  3. Ask open, non-judgmental questions — Use gentle prompts like 'Can you tell me what's been happening?'
  4. Listen actively and reflect back — Paraphrase what you hear, name feelings, and avoid offering quick solutions.
  5. Assess immediate safety — Ask directly about self-harm or harm to others and note urgency.
  6. Ask about suicidal thoughts — Check whether they have thoughts of harming themselves right now.
  7. Ask about a specific plan, timing, and means — Find out if they have a plan, access to means, or a set timeframe.
  8. Ask about past attempts and protective factors — Note any history of attempts and what keeps them safe (people, reasons).
  9. If immediate danger, call emergency services — Contact emergency help right away when the person is at immediate risk.
  10. Remove or secure access to lethal means — Ask to store or remove items that could be used to self-harm if safe to do so.
  11. Use calming and grounding techniques — Guide slow breathing or name five things they can see to reduce panic.
  12. Agree on next steps together — Offer options (hotline, GP, crisis team) and ask which they prefer.
  13. Encourage connection with a professional — Help them contact a doctor, counselor, or local crisis line as appropriate.
  14. Help make a simple safety or care plan — Write down warning signs, coping steps, contacts, and emergency numbers.
  15. Obtain consent before contacting others — Ask permission before telling family or professionals unless there is immediate danger.
  16. Follow up within 24–72 hours — Check in to see how they're doing and whether they accessed help.
  17. Care for yourself after the support — Notice your own feelings, take a break, and set a boundary if needed.
  18. Debrief with a supervisor or peer — Talk about the situation with a trusted colleague or mentor.
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