Supporting the mental health of participants during outdoor activities is becoming increasingly important for outdoor leaders and instructors. But what do you do when someone starts to struggle mid-session—on a ridgeline, at the crag, or in the middle of a canoe journey?
This practical workshop introduced the F.I.R.S.T. mental health incident procedure — a simple, structured approach designed to help outdoor professionals respond confidently and compassionately to participants showing signs of mental distress.
Led by Cory Jones, mental health first aid trainer and director of First Aid Training Co-operative, the session began with a short, focused PowerPoint presentation outlining the five steps of F.I.R.S.T.:
- Find Out
- Investigate
- Reassure
- Support/Signpost
- Take Care
We’ll then work through several realistic outdoor-specific case studies, followed by small group discussions and practical reflections. Whether you work with young people, adults, or mixed groups, this session will provide insight and tools to help you manage difficult situations safely and supportively—without needing to be a therapist.
The webinar gave a clear understanding of how to recognise signs of distress, have supportive conversations, and maintain group safety—even in remote or high-risk settings.
