Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a tool that empowers individuals to identify, understand, and respond to those who are experiencing a mental, emotional, or substance abuse crisis.

MHFA has two components. One is a core program tailored for adults called Adult Mental Health First Aid. The other is designed for adults who work with youth called Youth Mental Health First Aid. Each is available as an interactive 8-hour course. They can also be conducted as seminars, in one day or across multiple days to accommodate busy schedules.

Five goals of the program:

1. Reduce stigma
2. Create a common language around mental health
3. Preserve life when a person may be a danger to self or others
4. Help others identify, prevent, or intervene early when mental or emotional challenges occur
5. Promote and enhance recovery

You can expect to learn:

• What are the most common disorders? What do they look and feel like?
• Typical vs. atypical youth development (Youth MHFA)
• Signs and symptoms of mental health and substance abuse emergencies
• A five-step action plan to connect people in crisis to support systems
• Myth-busting and fact sharing about mental and emotional challenges
• Non-judgmental communication and listening skills
• Local, state, and national behavioral health resources

Make a difference

Anyone, anywhere can be the one to make a difference in the life of someone with a mental health or substance use challenge. We can help you know what to say and do.

For more information, contact [email protected]