Mental Health First Aid for Parents
Know the Signs. Be the Support.
Parenting is full of questions - especially when it comes to your child’s mental health.
“Is this just a phase, or something more?”
“Should I be worried about the mood swings?”
“How do I even start the conversation?”
“What if I say the wrong thing?”
If you've asked yourself any of these, you're not alone. Many parents want to help but simply don’t know what signs to look for - or what to do next when something feels off. That’s where Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) comes in.
What is MHFA training for parents?
MHFA is internationally recognised training that teaches you how to spot the signs of mental health issues in children and teens - and how to respond effectively and confidently.
Our parent-focused course is designed specifically for the challenges faced by families in international school communities: transitions, academic stress, identity changes, cultural differences, and more.
You’ll learn how to:
Recognise early warning signs of anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, conduct disorders (such as bullying), and more
Approach your child with care and confidence, even during difficult conversations
Encourage help-seeking and know what professional resources are available
Respond with practical, non-judgmental support when it matters most
What the course includes
Hands-on tools and real-life scenarios to help you support your child with confidence
Take-home resources you can revisit anytime
A supportive, judgment-free space with other parents who understand
Flexible format: In-person or online
Duration: 1 Day / 6hrs (in-person) or 4x 90min session blocks (online).
No previous mental health knowledge needed - just curiosity, care, and a willingness to show up for your child.
Certification
We are certified by Nuco Training in the UK, an accredited provider of the internationally recognised Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program. This program was originally developed by Mental Health First Aid Australia (MHFA), the organisation that pioneered this global movement in mental health education.
Our training is grounded in current research and best practices, ensuring sessions that are not only informative but also engaging, interactive, and practical. We use real-life scenarios and provide tools participants can immediately apply.
After successful completion of the Award, you will be certified for 3 years.
FAQ’s
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No, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is not therapy. It’s a skills-based training program that teaches participants how to recognise signs of mental health challenges, provide initial support, and guide individuals toward professional help if needed. Think of it as the mental health equivalent of physical first aid.
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MHFA is a globally recognised program that has been successfully implemented in over 25 countries, each adapting the training to their local context.
We also tailor our workshops to the unique cultural, linguistic, and organisational needs of your region, offering training in English, German, and French. -
MHFA training is for anyone who wants to support the mental well-being of their community. No prior experience or knowledge is required - just a willingness to learn and make a difference.
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The training is best conducted in-person. Reach out to us to discuss online and hybrid options.
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Yes, participants who complete the MHFA course will receive a certificate of completion from the program, recognising their new skills as a Mental Health First Aider. The certificate is valid for 3 years.
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These courses are regulated under the UK’s RQF system. Roughly, Level 1–3 qualifications correspond to EQF Levels 2–5, which align with various vocational qualifications in Europe. While these are UK-regulated, the core skills and frameworks taught are internationally recognised and applicable across borders.