We are pleased to announce that NZQA has approved a new skill standard 40722 – Provide Mental Health First Aid (Level 3).

Developed by Toitū te Waiora, this skill standard supports people to respond safely and appropriately to mental distress in a variety of settings.  It is designed for people in community or workplace settings who may be the first to respond when someone is experiencing mental distress.

Why was this skill standard developed?

This standard was developed in response to feedback received during the review of physical First Aid standards. A clear need was identified for targeted learning that supports people to respond safely and appropriately to mental distress in a variety of settings.

Learners will:

• Understand the purpose of mental health first aid
• Recognise common mental health challenges and their signs
• Use culturally responsive strategies to support others
• Provide safe, respectful, and practical support

How was the skill standard developed?

Developed in collaboration with subject matter experts and sector representatives.  The development process included consultation across a number of months.

What is next?

This standard can be used across a range of programmes and supports the development of confident, capable first response to mental distress in real-world settings.

The new skill standard will shortly be listed in the Directory of Assessment and Skill Standards (DASS).