Your responsibilites
MHFAiders can have a profound and positive impact in their communities. Carrying out your role responsibly involves the following:
Upholding the values and qualities of the role Approachable, impartial, non-judgemental, confidential, empathic, trustworthy, patient and a skilled listener. Contributing to reducing stigma and promoting positive mental health Use active listening skills throughout your support, taking into consideration your own Frame of Reference and the language you are using around mental health. Using the MHFA England action plan Use the MHFA action plan to guide your support and use good judgement about the order and the relevance of these actions, being flexible and responsive. Using the MHFAider Support App ® Use the MHFAider Support App ® to access the online national database of mental health services, Hub of Hope , to record your reflections after an MHFA conversation using the conversations feature and to access resources to support you in your role, with 24/7 support included. Practising self-care Understand the importance of self-care and practise wellbeing regularly to manage the stress in your Stress Container. Maintaining boundaries in the MHFAider role It’s important to remember that MHFA England courses do not teach people to be therapists or counsellors, how to diagnose mental health conditions, nor encourage MHFAiders to provide ongoing support. Understanding and maintaining appropriate boundaries is a key part of successfully providing MHFA. Refreshing your skills every three years with an MHFA Refresher course Just like refreshing your physical first aid skills, we recommend that MHFAiders attend a Refresher course every three years. Completing a Refresher course will help you to feel confident in your role and to hold MHFA conversations safely.
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