Most people want to support a colleague who is struggling but is fearful of saying something wrong. Mental health training provides people with practical and usable confidence to support a colleague rather than being simply aware of an issue.
Starting a Difficult Conversation
Training provides a simple framework or structure for starting a difficult conversation. For example naming what you have observed and then asking the person how they are. This simple framework removes most of the fear of checking in with a colleague.
Spotting Signs Earlier
Recognising early warning signs – such as someone pulling back from colleagues, becoming short tempered or lacking concentration – and knowing how to act before the situation develops into a full blown crisis is something that people feel confident to do following training.
Handling a Disclosure Calmly
When someone discloses that they are struggling with their mental health it can be a daunting experience. People often worry about saying the wrong thing to try and fix the problem. Training helps individuals understand how to listen to the person without judging them, remain calm and avoid giving unhelpful responses.
Signposting Without Feeling Out of Your Depth
You don’t have to be a therapist to support your colleagues. Many people are unsure of where to signpost someone for support and how to do it. A mental health training course will help you understand the various resources available to support people with their mental health, both within your organisation and externally.
For Mental Health Training Courses Plymouth, visit www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/plymouth.
Setting Boundaries as a Supporter
Confidence in knowing when to stop being a supportive colleague and handing over to professional help is also developed through the course. The course will enable you to understand what the role of a supportive colleague looks like and how to be that without taking on too much and becoming ‘unwell’ yourself.
Building confidence in this way requires practice and that is why taking a structured course is so good.
