Mental Health Support Training So You Know What to Say and Do
Practical training that builds the confidence to notice when someone is struggling, start the conversation, respond safely in a crisis and connect people with the right help. Delivered by Britt Brennan on behalf of ABC First Aid (RTO 3399).
Why it matters
Most people want to help. They just freeze because they are not sure what to say.
Mental health is not a fixed state. Anyone can move between coping well, reacting, struggling and being unwell, depending on stress, support and life events. Early, calm support from a colleague, manager or neighbour can change what happens next.
Why workplaces book this training
- WHS laws expect employers to identify and manage psychosocial hazards like stress, bullying, harassment and workload pressure.
- Leaders and HR teams need a clear, safe way to respond when someone is not okay.
- Teams feel more confident to check in early instead of waiting for a crisis.
- Staff learn where their role ends and when to refer to professional help.
This training builds awareness and practical skills. It does not replace professional mental health care or your organisation's own WHS obligations.
Course options
Choose the option that suits your people
Start with a short online introduction, or build real confidence with scenario-based practice in a group session.
Introduction to Mental Health Support
A foundation course for anyone starting to build awareness and confidence around mental health in everyday settings. Suits office, retail, education, healthcare, trades and community roles.
- Recognise early signs of mental distress
- Communicate with empathy
- Respond appropriately in everyday and crisis situations
Mental Health Support in the Workplace and Community
Our in-depth option. You practise supporting people through realistic scenarios, so the skills stick when it counts.
- Blended: up to 3 hours online learning, then around 4 hours face-to-face
- Face-to-face: one session of up to 6 hours
- Includes the CARES action plan, support services and communication handouts
The CARES action plan
A simple framework you can remember under pressure
Every participant learns the CARES Mental Health Action Plan, a step-by-step guide for supporting someone who is struggling or in crisis.
Check for safety
Look for immediate risks to the person or others. Create a safe, quiet space to talk. If in doubt, call 000.
Approach with empathy
Listen with patience and without judgement, so the person feels seen and heard.
Reassure and respond
Offer calm reassurance, use grounding techniques and guide the person toward manageable steps.
Empower with options
Explore informal and professional support, and let the person make their own decisions.
Support and self-care
Agree a simple plan, set a time to check in, and look after your own wellbeing too.
What you will learn
Practical skills you can use the same day
- The mental health continuum and common myths
- Communication that empowers: active listening, open questions, silence, summarising and reflecting
- Respecting autonomy, rights, privacy and cultural differences
- Recognising signs of distress and imminent crisis
- Responding to safety concerns and when to call 000
- Balancing collaboration and direction in a crisis
- Referral pathways and support services
- Psychosocial hazards and WHS responsibilities
- Scope of practice, duty of care and documentation
- Self-care, debriefing and knowing when to seek supervision
Who it is for
Built for the people others turn to
Managers and team leaders
Create a supportive team and respond early when someone is not coping.
HR and WHS professionals
Strengthen workplace mental health initiatives and psychosocial risk management.
Educators and trainers
Support students and colleagues with confidence in learning settings.
Community workers and volunteers
Respond respectfully when working with diverse people and communities.
Sporting and community groups
Look out for members, players and families in your club.
Anyone who cares
Learn how to support family, friends and neighbours through tough times.
How the session runs
Learn it, practise it, feel ready
The face-to-face session is interactive and paced with regular breaks. Participants can step out at any time if a topic feels too close to home.
- Online knowledge questions (blended option)
- Group case studies for each step of CARES
- Three realistic role-play scenarios: a young person, a co-worker and a neighbour
- Completing a simple support action plan
Please note: These are non-accredited short courses developed by ABC First Aid (RTO 3399). They are not a nationally recognised qualification and are not a substitute for professional mental health treatment.
Participants learn to recognise, respond and refer. They are not trained to diagnose or provide counselling.
Topics can bring up strong feelings. Britt checks in throughout, and support service details are shared with every participant.
Need support now?
Mental health support services
There is always someone who will listen. These national services are free and confidential.
Looking for local services in your area? Visit Find Local Help Now.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Is this course nationally recognised?
No. Both options are non-accredited short courses developed by ABC First Aid (RTO 3399). They build practical skills and confidence but do not lead to a nationally recognised statement of attainment.
How long does the training take?
The blended option includes up to 3 hours of online learning, followed by around 4 hours face-to-face. The fully face-to-face option runs as one session of up to 6 hours. The introductory course is online and self-paced.
Are there any entry requirements?
No. The course is open to anyone who wants to learn how to support people experiencing mental health challenges.
Can you deliver at our workplace?
Yes. Britt delivers on-site for workplaces, community groups and sporting clubs across Perth and regional WA. Get in touch to discuss group size, location and dates.
Will this make me a counsellor?
No. You will learn to recognise when someone is struggling, respond safely, and connect them with the right help. You will also learn where your role ends and when to refer to professionals.
What if the content is difficult for me?
That is completely okay. You can take a break at any time, and support service information is provided to everyone. Looking after yourself is part of the course.
Ready to build a team that knows how to help?
Tell Britt about your group, location and preferred dates. She will get back to you personally with options and pricing.