community awareness
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a training program designed to teach people how to help individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis or developing a mental health problem. The program provides information on how to recognize common mental health disorders, how to provide initial help, and how to guide individuals towards appropriate professional help.
MHFA is based on the principles of traditional first aid, which focuses on providing immediate care to people experiencing physical health problems or injuries. The program aims to empower individuals to be able to provide early intervention and support to someone who may be struggling with their mental health.
The training program is typically delivered by certified instructors and covers a range of topics, including anxiety, depression, psychosis, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. Participants learn how to approach and communicate with individuals who are in distress, how to assess the situation, and how to offer appropriate support and resources.
The goal of Mental Health First Aid is to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness and to increase knowledge and awareness of mental health issues. By providing individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide support, the program aims to promote early intervention and improve mental health outcomes.
No matter if you want to learn how to support loved ones who are struggling with their mental health, or whether you work in a profession where you meet individuals who may be experiencing mental health challenges. Taking the training may help individuals feel more confident in their ability to respond to mental health crises and may increase your own understanding of mental health and wellness. Overall, the Mental Health First Aid program provides a valuable resource for individuals who are interested in promoting mental health and wellness in their communities.
Adult Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid for Adults teaches people how to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges in adults ages 18 and older, how to offer and provide initial help, and how to guide a person toward appropriate care if necessary.
Youth Mental Health First Aid
Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.