Sometimes people are worried that being trained as a mental health first-aider will mean that they have to take responsibility for others even when this is too emotionally demanding or time consuming.
This is an understandable concern, but it is based on misconception.
People trained in mental health first aid (MHFA) are ordinary people who have been trained in what to do during a mental health crisis.
However, their role is only essential in the very short term, until other help can be found.
That other help can come in a variety of forms – from the person’s family or friends, a general practitioner (GP), a telephone helpline, a hospital accident and emergency department, or an ambulance.
A key thing to remember is that although the first-aider has been trained how to respond, they are never obliged to intervene.
Mental Health Matters 