Mental health and wellbeing training can help people feel more confident talking about mental health.
They can aid us in recognising when someone may be struggling, and responding in a supportive and appropriate way.
Training opportunities across Perth and Kinross aim to improve understanding, reduce stigma, and support people to access help when needed.
Scotland's Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA)
Scotland's Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA) is a 12‑hour interactive course designed to help people develop practical skills to support mental health and wellbeing.
By the end of the course, participants will:
- have a better understanding of mental health, suicide and self‑harm
- recognise common mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks and psychosis
- feel more confident identifying when someone may be experiencing a mental health difficulty
- have practised skills to support someone who is developing mental health challenges
- be able to support people to access appropriate help, including professional support and evidence‑based self‑help strategies
Who this training is for
SMHFA courses run regularly for Council staff, NHS staff and third‑sector organisations.
You can find out more about upcoming courses and how to book by visiting SMHFA's "Find a course" webpage. Courses delivered locally are free of charge.
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a two‑day workshop for people who want to learn how to recognise the signs of suicidal thoughts and respond appropriately to help prevent immediate risk.
The training is designed to support people in communities, services and organisations to feel more willing, ready and able to help someone who may be at risk of suicide.
Participants will learn how to:
- recognise invitations for help
- reach out and offer support
- review the risk of suicide
- apply a recognised suicide intervention model
- link people with appropriate community and support services
Who this training is for
ASIST training is aimed at staff and volunteers working in statutory or third‑sector organisations that provide services in Perth and Kinross.
You can find out more about upcoming courses and how to book by visiting SMHFA's "Find a course" webpage. Courses delivered locally are free of charge.
Other mental health and wellbeing learning
Additional learning and awareness resources are available nationally to support mental health and wellbeing in communities and workplaces.
You may find it helpful to explore:
- NHS Inform mental health and wellbeing learning resources
- workplace guidance within the Mental Health and Wellbeing Policies and Procedures Toolkit (PDF, 1 MB)
Important note
Training can improve confidence and understanding, but it is not a replacement for direct support.
If you or someone else needs emotional or practical support, you can explore Wellbeing support services, speak with your GP, or find out more about mental health services in Perth and Kinross.
Urgent concerns
If you are worried about immediate safety or risk, urgent help is available. You can contact NHS 24 by calling 111, Samaritans on 116 123, or call 999 in an emergency. Information about Adult support and protection is available on the Perth & Kinross Council website.
