The SMHFA course takes 12 hours to complete. It can be presented in a range of formats to suit different groups and must be presented by a qualified SMHFA instructor and quality is continuously monitored by Public Health Scotland.

The course will give you the skills, in your role as a mental health first aider, to effectively support others experiencing reduced mental health. The knowledge presented and understanding developed in the course helps to remove stigma and to give you confidence in approaching a person in distress.

The course takes 12 hours and is usually run on two separate days which can be done over 2 weeks. It is an interesting course that includes different activities, films, discussions and even some fun and laughter.

You will get a certificate of attendance and an interesting manual to take away with you at the end so that you can remind yourself of what you’ve learned.

The course is diverse, interactive and stimulating and, though challenging at times, participants feel enlightened on completion of the course. Here are 5 good reasons to attend the SMHFA course:

1. Mental health crises often leave people feeling helpless and uncertain. This course provides the knowledge and confidence needed to provide effective support.
2. Learn how to recognize when someone may need help and how to approach them in the most effective manner.
3. Acquire basic suicide intervention skills and potentially save a life.
4. Obtain invaluable information on how to protect and maintain your own and others’ mental health.
5. Acquire new skills applicable across various aspects of daily life.

You’re ready to take the next step, fantastic! You can start the application process by filling in our enquiries form below or contact our Administrative Coordinator, Lisa, at lisa.alexander@fdamh.org.uk