Why We Need Mental Health First Aid

Every one of us has mental health. For some, it’s thriving; for others, it’s a daily challenge that isn’t always visible. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) gives people the knowledge, confidence and language to notice the signs, start the conversation and signpost support—early, safely and compassionately.

• Around 1 in 5 adults in England had a common mental health condition in 2023/24 (such as anxiety or depression). That’s millions of friends, colleagues and family members—every single year. NHS England Digital
   
• Charities still summarise this as “about 1 in 4 of us each year”, which aligns with long-standing public health messaging—either way, the prevalence is high and growing. Mind
   

• Work-related stress, depression or anxiety affected an estimated 776,000 workers in 2023/24 in Great Britain—around half of all reported work-related ill-health. press.hse.gov.uk+1
   
• The annual cost to UK employers is £51 billion (presenteeism, absenteeism and staff turnover), with presenteeism the single biggest driver. Investing in mental health makes business sense. Deloitte+1
   

• In 2023, 6,069 people died by suicide in England and Wales (about three-quarters were men). Preliminary 2024 data suggests a slight fall—but numbers remain tragically high. Every earlier conversation matters. Office for National Statistics+1
   
• Loneliness and disconnection are rising; in 2024 about 7.8% of UK adults felt lonely “always or often.” Community skills to spot struggle and respond kindly really do save lives. Mind
   

• Knowledge: how to recognise signs of common mental health problems and crises.
   
• Skills: how to approach, listen non-judgementally and signpost appropriate help.
   
• Confidence: to support a colleague, friend or family member safely and early.
   
• Culture change: trained MHFAiders help create workplaces and communities where it’s normal to ask for help—and to receive it.
   

• Experienced, human-centred delivery: training led by someone who understands both lived experience and organisational realities.
   
• Ongoing support: we don’t disappear after the course—graduates join a supportive network and get post-course check-ins.
   
• Flexible options: in-person or online, for individuals and organisations.
   
• Real-world impact: practical tools you can use the same day to help someone struggling.