At Costain, more than 300 of our people are trained Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA), but what does that role involve?
We speak to Paul Fisher, P3M lead in our Advisory and Digital Services team about his experience as a MHFA, what’s involved in the role and his personal advice on how to look after your mental wellbeing.
Why did you want to become a Mental Health First Aider?
"I joined Costain about three years ago and have been a Mental Health First Aider throughout my time here. I have experienced poor mental health myself, through severe anxiety. It’s something that happens to a lot of people, and I wanted to use my experience to help others or at least be available to those who are also suffering from poor mental health.
Mental health and wellbeing is so important, especially at work, which is a place where you spend a lot of your time. So why wouldn’t I want to help others so that they feel comfortable at work and can perform at their best?"
"The kind of support we can offer is all to do with empathy and advice. We’re here to listen, first and foremost, and sometimes we may offer advice such as sign-posting them towards the Employee Assistance Programme or suggesting formal medical help from medically trained specialists. "
Paul Fisher P3M lead
Can you tell us a bit about the MHFA role?
"It’s important to emphasise that we are not trained clinicians; we’re people who care deeply about others and their mental health issues. MHFAs are trained to look for signs in others, such as changes in behaviour, but also to be available and visible for people to reach out to and ask for a conversation."
When should someone reach out and what support do you offer?
"Sometimes I might notice a change in someone’s behaviour, particularly for someone that I know quite well and have worked with for a long time. In that instance, I, in my role as a MHFA, would reach out to them and have a conversation.
Equally, line managers can sometimes notice changes in the behaviour of their team members or spot something that may not be quite right. That’s when they would likely involve a MHFA, whether to give guidance on having those conversations or encouraging the team member to speak to us."
What's your top tip for Mental Wellbeing?
"My top tip is for everyone to carve out some time for your mental wellbeing. Lots of people make time for their physical health, whether that’s through exercise and sport, but not enough people do so for their mental health, which is just as important. My recommendation would be to do something that makes you feel happy and relaxes you; something that releases those natural endorphins.
For me, I really enjoy running, and have been using that for the last 20 years or so. It has a positive effect for me mentally, releasing those endorphins and allows me to escape and get out in nature."
"Everyone is individual so find what works for you – that’s the key thing."
Paul Fisher P3M lead