Mental Health First Aid

What is Mental Health First Aid Training?

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an internationally-recognized, evidence-based program that is managed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.  The MHFA course teaches you how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders.  The training gives you the skills you need ot reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis. Participants engage in group discussions and exercises to understand course content and practice helping skills.

Why take Mental Health First Aid Training?

• Just as CPR helps a person with no clinical training assist an individual following a heart attack, MHFA training helps a person assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis, such as contemplating suicide.  In both situations, the goal is to help support an individual until appropriate professional help arrives. 
• Mental illnesses are common.  In any given year, ONE in FIVE adults experience mental illness. .
• MHFA will help you be there for a friend, family member, or colleague.  People with mental illnesses often suffer alone; after training, you will better understand the signs and symptoms to look for and how to provide initial help.

Adult MHFA Training

MHFA for adults teaches people how to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges in adults 18 and older, how to offer and provide initial help, and how to guide a person toward appropriate care if necessary.  Topics covered include anxiety, depression, psychosis, and substance use.

Youth MHFA Training

This course is designed for adults to recognize and provide support for youth (12-18) suffering signs and symptoms of mental health distress.  Topics covered include typical adolescent development, common mental health disorders, including substance use, depression, anxiety, and disruptive behaviors.