What are core components of mental health first aid in the workplace?

• A. Ignore distress, deny help.
• B. Diagnose mental illness and prescribe medication.
• C. Recognize distress, provide initial support, encourage professional help, and connect to resources.
• D. Post a notice.

Answer: (C)

Mental health first aid in the workplace centers on recognizing distress, offering initial, nonjudgmental support, encouraging professional help, and connecting the person with available resources. This approach addresses the person’s immediate needs and helps steer them toward appropriate care without trying to diagnose or treat a condition yourself. It emphasizes approachable, supportive contact—listening, validating feelings, and staying with the person—while guiding them to professional help, such as an employee assistance program, occupational health, or crisis services. Simply ignoring the distress or posting a notice doesn’t provide the necessary support, and diagnosing or prescribing is outside the scope of workplace first aid. By focusing on early intervention, practical support, and resource connection, you help create a safer, more supportive environment.