Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Cost, ROI & Benefits

If you’re looking for ways to prioritize mental health in the workplace, you might find Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training to be the perfect fit.

MHFA, done right, can create a supportive and inclusive environment for your employees so they can feel more welcome, comfortable, and productive at work.

Understanding Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid, often called MHFA helps people learn how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health issues.

The purpose of MHFA is to give people the skills they need to support someone experiencing a mental health issue until professional help is available or the crisis is resolved.

MHFA helps people spot early signs of mental health problems and provides the right support before things get worse. This early intervention can make a big difference in someone's recovery and overall well-being, and in fact, organizations that invest in MHFA training often see positive outcomes in their employees.

These trainings can show participants how to handle crises, from someone having a panic attack to showing signs of suicidal thoughts.

Mental Health First Aid Training Cost

The mental health first aid training cost can vary depending on the type of course and where you take it. Standard MHFA courses generally have a fee which can be per participant or per training, depending on the training type. This fee covers the cost of the training materials and the instruction provided.

For specialized courses, like those focusing on youth or specific professions, the cost can be different. Some providers offer group discounts, making it more affordable for organizations to train multiple employees at once. Additionally, there may be extra costs for materials or certification renewal, which is necessary to keep your training current.

The mental health first aid training cost is an investment that can seem expensive at first, but the benefits it provides are well worth the cost, equipping your team with vital skills to avoid things like workplace bullying and instead create a more supportive and understanding community.

Standard Course Fees

The average mental health first aid training cost for standard Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses is around $170 per participant, however, the price can greatly vary based on your region, organization type, and organization size.

If you’re looking to save some money, you might find that in-person courses might be more expensive than online ones because they require a venue and more resources.

The duration of the course also plays a role in the pricing. Shorter courses might be cheaper, while longer, more comprehensive courses might make the mental health first aid instructor training cost more.

Youth/Teen MFHA Courses

Youth MHFA courses are designed specifically to help young people. The mental health first aid training cost for these courses can be different from standard courses. These courses often have unique benefits because they focus on youth's specific needs and challenges like peer pressure or social media.

Organizations like schools and youth centers often offer these courses, sometimes at a lower cost or even for free.

Specialized or Advanced Training

Specialized or advanced MHFA training is available for different sectors like workplaces or the military. These courses are tailored to meet the specific needs of those environments.

The cost of mental health first aid training for these specialized courses can vary, but they’re usually higher than standard courses because they provide more in-depth training

 The benefits of advanced training include being better prepared to handle unique situations that might arise in these sectors. Workplace training might focus on stress management and how to support colleagues, while military training might address trauma and PTSD.

Group Discounts

Group discounts are a great way to make Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training more affordable. When organizations or community groups sign up for MHFA courses together, they often receive a reduced rate.

For example, if the standard cost is $300 per person, a group might get a discount that lowers the price to $275 each.

Additional Training Materials

Sometimes, there are extra costs for training materials in MHFA courses. These materials can include manuals, workbooks, or access to online resources

Even though they might add to the overall cost for mental health first aid training, they can be very important for enhancing the learning experience and helping your team remember what they learned and engage in the course even further.

Certification Renewal

If a member of your team is certified in MHFA and you cover their certification fees, it’s important to remember the renewal process. MHFA certification is valid for three years, and after that, you'll need to go through a recertification process to keep your skills up-to-date.

If you’re wondering “how much does mental health first aid training cost when renewing,” this typically involves taking a refresher course, which may cost around $50 to $75 depending on your location.

The ROI of MHFA Training

Reduced Absenteeism and Presenteeism

One of the biggest benefits of MHFA is reduced absenteeism. When employees are trained in MHFA, they can recognize and address mental health issues early, which could help your employees have a better work-life balance, feel supported in their workplace, and even minimize taking time off because they have the resources they need to thrive!

When employees are trained to recognize the signs of mental health problems, they can offer support before these issues lead to absences. And when fewer employees take sick days, companies save money on lost productivity and can maintain a smoother workflow!

Improved Employee Productivity and Engagement

MHFA training can also boost employee productivity by creating a supportive work environment. When employees feel supported and know that their mental health is taken seriously, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated.

According to NAMI, 36% of survey respondents notice their mental health suffer because of work demands. Simply put, when employees know that help is available and that their mental health matters, they’re more likely to perform at their best.

Enhanced Workplace Safety and Morale

By training employees to recognize and respond to mental health issues, MHFA fosters an environment where everyone feels cared for and understood. Employees are more likely to collaborate effectively and contribute to a productive and positive workplace culture when they know they’re being supported right back!

Reduced Healthcare Expenses

Early intervention through MHFA can significantly lower healthcare costs by preventing more serious mental health issues. When mental health problems are addressed early, they are less likely to develop into more severe conditions that require additional treatment like anxiety therapy or CBT therapy.

Care For Your Employees with Access Therapy By Your Side

Unlock the full potential of your workforce with Access Therapy by your side!

Providing ongoing mental health support for employees is crucial for their well-being and overall productivity. Mental health is just as vital as physical health, and with access to our Hamilton therapy and counselling services, you or your employees can address their concerns before they escalate into serious issues.

To get started, book a free consultation with Access Therapy today and see how we can support your team’s well-being and performance!