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What does a Mental Health Assistant do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

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

Related: Top Mental Health Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples

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.

Related: Mental Health Assistant Resume Example

Related: Mental Health Assistant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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