Mental health problems can affect anyone, irrespective of age, gender, or background. In Scotland, mental health issues are a common concern, with approximately one in three people experiencing mental health problems at some point in their lives. These can range from common conditions like anxiety and depression to more impactful and complex disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

The impact of mental health issues on individuals and their families cannot be overstated. Mental health problems can interfere with daily activities, relationships, and overall well-being, sometimes even leading to long-term disability.

• According to the Scottish Health Survey, approximately one in three people (about 33%) in Scotland experienced at least one mental health problem each year.
• Mental health issues have a significant economic impact in Scotland. According to the Mental Health Foundation, the total cost of mental health problems in Scotland was estimated to be around £10.7 billion per year, which includes costs related to healthcare, social care, and lost productivity due to mental health problems.
• Women were more likely than men to experience mental health issues. In 2019, 36% of adult women reported experiencing mental health problems compared to 30% of adult men

Scotland’s Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA) is a crucial initiative designed to educate and empower individuals to identify, understand, and respond to mental health issues within their communities. With mental health problems affecting a significant portion of the Scottish population, the need for accessible and practical support is more vital than ever. SMHFA courses equip participants with essential skills and knowledge to offer timely and effective assistance to those in need, ultimately contributing to a more compassionate and resilient society. Courses are led by experienced, certified instructors who are continuously quality assessed by Public Health Scotland.

The course is designed to equip participants with the ability to offer help in a crisis. The first section teaches participants how to recognise warning signs, approach conversations about suicidal thoughts, and provide support to individuals at risk of suicide. Participants learn the specific steps to take when offering support to someone experiencing a mental health crisis or showing signs of mental distress, while emphasising the importance of empathy, non-judgmental communication, and connecting individuals to appropriate resources and professional help within the Scottish mental health system.