Mental health and suicide prevention training

Courses supported by the Public Health Agency (PHA) include mental health, emotional wellbeing and suicide prevention awareness, skills and specialised skills training.

On this page

Everyone’s mental health and emotional wellbeing is important, and many different issues can affect it. Training courses are available to learn more about these issues, including the signs and symptoms of poor mental health and when someone is having thoughts of suicide. 

Training framework

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has developed a Mental Health, Emotional Wellbeing and Suicide Prevention Training Framework (The Framework) in line with the Northern Ireland Mental Health Strategy and Protect Life 2. 

This framework provides guidance on the different tiers and types of training available in Northern Ireland and supports knowledge and skills development.

Training programmes

Courses supported by the PHA include Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), Mental Health First Aid NI (MHFA), safeTALK, Mindset Adult and Mindset Adolescent.

The length of the courses depends on the level of training involved. Some courses are delivered over a few hours, while others may last a couple of days.

Whether an individual is interested in increasing their knowledge of mental health or an organisation wishes to provide information for staff or users, the training framework can guide you to identify the most appropriate training.

Learning outcomes

When working/engaging with others who are in a vulnerable state, it is important to have the understanding, knowledge and skills to respond appropriately and effectively. 

The tiers listed below indicate the outcomes of the learning which will help to do this:

  • Tier 1 is information sharing - Increased awareness of services available, and how to help a person access these.
  • Tier 2 is developing awareness and understanding - Increased awareness and understanding of mental illnesses and suicide prevention. 
  • Tier 3 is enhanced knowledge and skills training - Advanced knowledge and enhanced skills when working with others, how to respond appropriately and signpost to appropriate services.
  • Tier 4 is specialised skills training - Advanced skills in responding to and intervening in a crisis situation. 

Accessing training

Training is available via the ‘PHA Resource Hub’ at www.pharesourcehub.co.uk/ 

If you have questions about PHA's training email [email protected].

The PHA recognises that there are other training providers available to deliver mental health, emotional wellbeing and suicide prevention courses across the region. The PHA is not in a position to promote or endorse these programmes. 

There may be a charge to attend non-PHA funded courses.

For further information on training available in your locality visit:

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