Our operating division, Health Directions, provides Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Trainings for individuals and organizations seeking continuing education and an understanding of mental illness and how to respond to psychiatric emergencies.
Mental Health First Aid is an 8-hour course that 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 to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing and mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis.
Participants learn:
- The prevalence of mental illnesses in the U.S. and their emotional and economic cost.
- The potential warning signs and risk factors for depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.
- A 5-step action plan to help an individual in crisis connect to professional care.
- Resources available to help someone with a mental health problem
Mental Health First Aid Training for Youth
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 ADHD)
- Eating disorders
More about Mental Health First Aid
Interested in scheduling a training? Contact Us
Continuing Education Units may be available for trainings
