For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.
Unit Learning Outcomes
To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.
1 — Understand what is meant by ‘mental health’.
Assessment Criteria
1.1: ‘Good’ mental health, for example:
feeling good about yourself and your life
being able to cope with everyday stresses
maintaining good relationships with others
being able to manage emotions in a balanced way
1.2: Mental ill-health, for example:
a condition affecting thoughts, emotions, or behaviour negatively
can range from mild stress to severe mental illnesses like depression or anxiety
may impact daily life, work, or relationships
1.3: Common emotional states, which may be unpleasant to experience, for example:
feeling sad or upset after a disappointment
feeling nervous before a big event, like an exam
feeling frustrated when things go wrong
feeling lonely when away from friends or family
2 — Understand how to look after own mental wellbeing.
Assessment Criteria
2.1 Lifestyle that supports good mental health, for example:
healthy eating and drinking
regular exercise
good sleep
positive relationships
relaxation and hobbies
avoiding harmful habits
2.2 Deteriorating mental health, for example:
emotional signs
physical signs
behavioural changes
thinking patterns
2.3 Ways to cope with stressful situations, for example:
talking to someone
relaxation techniques
time management
physical activity
seeking support
3 — Understand how to support friends and family with mental health difficulties.
Assessment Criteria
3.1
List the signs of poor mental health in others.
3.2: Support positive mental health in others, for example:
be a good listener and offer a non-judgmental ear
show kindness, patience, and understanding
encourage them to talk about their feelings
suggest doing enjoyable activities together
offer help with small tasks they may find difficult
share information about mental health resources
encourage healthy habits like regular sleep, eating well, and staying active
3.3: Situations when it is better to seek professional or emergency help, for example:
if the person talks about wanting to harm themselves or others
if they mention feeling suicidal or making plans to end their life
when their mental health worsens despite your support
if you feel unable to handle the situation or are unsure how to help
when they are behaving in a way that poses a risk to their safety or
if they experience severe confusion or disorientation
in cases of extreme distress, such as panic attacks or breakdowns
if the person providing support initially feels unconfident/out of their depth/unable to provide support