If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988.
What is Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid is an early intervention public education program. It teaches adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge, how to listen nonjudgmentally and give reassurance to a person who may be experiencing a mental health challenge, and how to refer a person to appropriate professional support and services. This program will help you feel confident as a mental health first aider.
Mental Health First Aid was created in Australia in 2000 by Betty Kitchener, an educator and mental health consumer, and Professor Tony Jorm, a mental health researcher. In 2008, the National Council, the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the Missouri Department of Mental Health brought Mental Health First Aid to the United States.
MHFA Course Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the purpose of Mental Health First Aid and the role of the Mental Health First Aider.
- Identify the impact of mental health challenges on the well-being of adults in the U.S.
- Explain that recovery from a mental health challenge is possible.
- Describe the principles of safety and privacy for both the Mental Health First Aider and the person receiving first aid.
- Explain the 5 steps of the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE).
- Recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges that may impact adults.
- Evaluate the impact of early intervention on mental health challenges.
- Apply the appropriate steps of the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE) when a person shows early signs of a mental health challenge.
- Apply the appropriate steps of the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE) when a person shows worsening signs of a mental health challenge.
- Apply the appropriate steps of the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE) to crisis situations.
- Choose appropriate methods for self-care following the application of Mental Health First Aid in a crisis or non-crisis situation.
Meet your Instructor
Welcome to Mental Health First Aid Training! My name is Megan McCollough and I look forward to sharing the information and resources provided by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
Have questions?
If you have general questions or are interested in a private class for your group or organization, please send an email to the address below to start a conversation. I look forward to speaking with you.
Mental Health First Aid
Fredericksburg, Virginia, United States
