What does a Mental Health Assistant do?
Published 3 min read
A mental health assistant helps patients with mental illness by providing support and assistance. They may also help with daily living activities, such as bathing, eating, and dressing.
Mental Health Assistant job duties include:
- Assist patients with personal care and hygiene, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.
- Help patients eat, drink, and take medications as prescribed.
- Record patients' daily food and fluid intake and output.
- Measure patients' vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, and respiration rate.
- Help patients ambulate, or walk, to reduce the risk of falls.
- Transport patients to and from diagnostic tests and therapy appointments.
- Engage patients in recreational and social activities to promote their well-being.
- Reassure patients who are anxious or agitated.
- Monitor patients for changes in mood or behavior.
Mental Health Assistant Job Requirements
Mental health assistants typically have at least an associate's degree in a mental health-related field, although some jobs may require a bachelor's degree. Many states also require certification as a mental health assistant. Some employers may prefer candidates with experience working in a mental health setting.
Mental Health Assistant Skills
- Patience
- Empathy
- Communication
- Listening
- Observation
- Flexibility
- Creativity
- Problem solving
- Organization
- Multi-tasking
- Stress management
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How to become a Mental Health Assistant
Mental health assistants provide care and support to people who have mental health conditions. They work under the supervision of a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker.
Mental health assistants typically have at least an associate’s degree in human services or a related field. Some states require certification for mental health assistants.
Mental health assistants typically provide support and assistance to people who have mental illness. They help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They also help with transportation, appointments, and medications. In addition, they provide emotional support and teach coping skills.
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