Hit the pause button on psychological crises: Navigating Mental Health First Aid
Connecting, Empathizing, Assisting Mentally: Initial Aid for the Mindset
Imagine a co-worker grappling with suicidal thoughts, or a neighbor suffocating in the clutches of anxiety. Many are left clueless about how to respond in such a crisis. That's where a university-led mental health first aid course aims to make a difference.
- Spread the Word
A classroom on the Bremen campus, a semicircle of university staff playing their roles in a simulated scenario. Tense silence as they perform John, a PhD student perpetually on edge, battling his academics with sleepless nights. As John's supervisor, the group subtly discovers the psychological turmoil he faces, treading a thin line of delicacy to approach the sensitive topic.
Course participant Henning Hüttemeyer explains, "These aren't questions you just fire at anyone. It's a delicate dance, knowing when and how to approach."
Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Society of Germany reveals that more than one-fourth of the adult populace in Germany are struggling with mental illness, with anxiety disorders, depression, and substance abuse being the most prevalent issues [1]. This is where the importance of mental health first aid courses arises, an initiative first founded in Australia and now available across 29 countries.
Recognize and Respond Appropriately
"We don't diagnose and we're not therapists," says Wiebke Rimasch, psychotherapist and course leader. "But we're here to establish a connection and lead them to professional assistance." The aim is to offer emotional support to individuals grappling with mental health issues without intruding on their privacy. Participants are initially given a basic understanding of common mental health disorders, helping them recognize signs of depression, panic attacks, and severe psychotic episodes [2].
Skills like empathy, active listening, and providing a compassionate ear are crucial for mental health first aiders. Rimasch emphasizes, "It's as simple as asking the question, 'How are you actually doing?' and being willing to listen." The mental health first aiders at Bremen University are meant to help out upon noticing concerns about students or fellow staff members, and they're also open for consultations during their working hours for anyone in need of a talk [3].
Reminding individuals of their personal resources, such as invigorating hobbies and companionship, and educating them about available counseling services are also part of a first aider's toolkit [3].
Speak Up, Spread Awareness
Amina S., a future mental health first aider, has experienced the impact of mental illness firsthand. As a student, she once suffered a migraine attack in class, later leading to a panic attack due to the lack of understanding around her situation [4]. She stresses, "The stigma associated with mental illnesses still prevails. While a broken leg would receive sympathy, mental illness often goes overlooked."
Given the extensive pressure students face today, ranging from global issues like the climate crisis and wars to personal worries such as academic pressure, financial constraints, or loneliness, it is essential to create a safe space to address mental health concerns [5].
If you detect someone in distress, Rimasch advises openness. "Experience has shown that people appreciate being approached," she says. Addressing issues proactively is vital, as Britta Stangierski, the general manager of AOK Nordost, points out, "Ignoring mental health problems won't make them disappear."
Bremer's mental health first aid course aims to equip participants with the necessary skills to effectively support individuals grappling with mental health struggles, such as science-based health-and-wellness strategies that cater to mental health. Henning Huëttemeyer, a course participant, emphasized the importance of tact and empathy when approaching such sensitive topics, stating, "These aren't questions you just fire at anyone. It's a delicate dance, knowing when and how to approach."
