Level 2 award in mental health awareness and support

There are strong links between mental health and physical health and they are both essential pillars of wellbeing, which is a broader classification of health, fitness, and happiness that most aspire towards.

It is widely documented that those who struggle with mental health will often make poor lifestyle choices which also compromise their physical health, whether that be overeating, consuming alcohol, smoking, vaping, or generally being inactive. Similarly, many people with physical health conditions, like arthritis, back pain, or diabetes for example, will often develop secondary mental health conditions because of the physical limitations and/or pain (and other symptoms) that they are experiencing.

While the specific pathways and reasons are unclear, the links are undeniable, and this explains why all exercise and fitness professionals should be suitably aware of key mental health issues and conditions.

The following list provides a range of reasons why exercise professionals of today should complete this qualification.

• Better understand your client’s and colleagues mental health challenges

  Develop an up-to-date perspective on a range of common mental health conditions and the different ways that these can affect people. This knowledge will help you to become more empathetic, empowering your clients/colleagues to implement life-improving solutions, and/or seek professional help.

• Discover effective support mechanisms

  Learn practical strategies that can be used with clients to help them better manage their levels of stress, anxiety, and depression (amongst other conditions), making a meaningful contribution to their overall wellbeing.

• Know when to signpost and refer

  Develop the confidence to recognise when people need professional help and learn who and when to signpost your clients and colleagues to ensure that they receive timely and appropriate support that is beyond your professional scope of practice.

• Enhance your professional reputation

  With your newfound knowledge on contemporary mental health-related issues, which will inform a broader and more rounded perspective on how mental health can affect people differently, you’ll adapt your working practices accordingly and become more appealing to people in need of your services and empathy.
  
  This qualification will also demonstrate to all that you are committed to high professional standards and providing a comprehensive and inclusive fitness training services to clients.

• Champion mental health agendas

  By completing this mental health awareness course, you’ll demonstrate to others that you’re committed to raising awareness and understanding of contemporary mental health challenged and conditions. Help to change the stigma associated with mental health, promoting a more compassionate, tolerant, and inclusive fitness industry.