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Exploring the role of mental health first aid officers in workplaces: A qualitative study using case study methodology

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-19, 21:59 authored by Bovopoulos, N, La Montagne, AD, Angela MartinAngela Martin, Jorm, A

Purpose - An emerging trend in Australian workplaces is to appoint staff trained in mental health first aid as mental health first aid officers (MHFAOs), similar to physical first aid officers (PFAOs) focused on physical health emergencies. The purpose of this paper is to better understand the nature of MHFAO roles in workplaces and develop recommendations for other workplaces.

Design/methodology/approach - A case study methodology was used, with semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted with multiple individuals within five diverse organisations.

Findings - The results indicated that organisations tended to differ in their approach to implementation, based on their level of experience. There was a strong agreement across organisations on the benefits and challenges they have experienced with the role.

Practical implications - Organisational representatives highlighted some important differences between PFAO and MHFAO roles. Respondents across all organisations agreed that MHFA training should ideally be offered to all staff if feasible, not only MHFAOs. The greatest challenge experienced by respondents was inadequate support to, and internal resourcing for, MHFAO roles. Respondents suggested that workplaces provide more support and training to MHFAOs.

Originality/value - This is the first study to explore and describe the experiences of workplaces with MHFAOs. Recommendations are made to assist interested organisations in these efforts.

History

Publication title

International Journal of Workplace Health Management

Volume

11

Issue

6

Pagination

366-381

ISSN

1753-8351

Department/School

TSBE

Publisher

Emerald Publishing Limited

Place of publication

United Kingdom

Rights statement

Copyright 2018 Emerald Publishing Limited

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Occupational health

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    University Of Tasmania

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