This edition of the Mental Health First Aid Manual provides information about the major types of mental disorders, the best types of help available, local resources, and how to apply the steps of mental health first aid to various situations. The manual is also used to support the award-winning 12-hour MHFA course.
A little repetitive and generic at times, sometimes just gave the same vague generalisations of how to handle a number of different situations, but still better than nothing and definitely a worthwhile and enlightening guide on how to help someone experiencing a mental health crisis, and I am psyched to finish the course and become an actual accredited mental health first aider.
This (small) manual was written to accompany the 12 hour Mental Health First Aid Course available in every Australian State and Territory. More info on the courses at www.mhfa.com.au.
The booklet is well set out and seems basic but contains all the info one needs in checklist form and a few at a glance charts - essential in an emergency situation. The course and the booklet does not teach people to become therapists or experts, but is designed for people to recognise the symptoms of mental health problems and how to provide initial help and when to call 000 (ambulance) or guide people towards the appropriate professional help.
Useful resource for quick reference. Good for basic training on signs and symptoms to look out for. The course is also worth it. In no way replaces in depth training on mental health but is a handy supplemental resource.