What is ALGEE?

A Mental Health First Aid Guide for Supporting Someone You Care About

When someone we care about is struggling, it can be hard to know what to say or do. So many people are scared to say or do the wrong thing. That’s one of the main reasons people come to Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training: they want to help, but they don’t want to get it wrong. They have good intentions and want to have the tools and skills to have the conversations. 

One of the things participants learn in a Mental Health First Aid course is ALGEE.

ALGEE is a simple, practical framework that gives you steps to follow when supporting someone with a mental health concern. It’s the mental health version of DRSABC, an action plan that helps guide your response clearly and compassionately.

What does ALGEE stand for?

• A  Approach, assess, and assist with any crisis
  Think carefully about how, when, and where you start the conversation. Assess for immediate risks like suicide or self-harm.
• L  Listen non-judgmentally
• Let the person share without interrupting or giving advice. Just being present can make a huge difference.
• G Give reassurance and information
  Validate how they’re feeling and offer trusted resources if they’re open to it.
• E  Encourage appropriate professional help
  Not everyone knows where to start. You can help by guiding them toward GPs, therapists, or other qualified professionals.
• E  Encourage self-help and other supports
  From exercise to peer support groups, small steps can build up someone’s capacity to manage their wellbeing.

Why ALGEE works

Unlike some emergency frameworks, ALGEE doesn’t have to happen in strict order. You might be listening while assessing risk or offering reassurance while discussing support options.

At its heart, ALGEE is about empathy, connection, and offering hope, not fixing or diagnosing.

Want to build your confidence in supporting someone’s mental health?
Mental Health First Aid workshops offer more than just awareness. They provide practical tools to help you recognise when someone might be struggling, respond with empathy, and know what to say and what to avoid in a conversation about mental health.

These workshops help reduce stigma, build a shared language, and create more connected and supportive workplaces and communities. When people feel equipped with the right knowledge and skills, they are more likely to reach out and support one another.

Whether you’re a parent, colleague, manager, or friend, learning these skills can make a real difference.

Read more here: Why Mental Health Workshops are Crucial for Employee Wellbeing

Or get in touch to find out about upcoming courses or workplace training options.

Need help starting a conversation with someone you’re worried about? My course on Mental Health First Aid covers this in depth. You can also grab a copy of my e-book, How to Get the Most Out of Therapy, from The Therapy Hub.