Mental Health First Aid is a 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 a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis.

Most of us would know how to help if we saw someone having a heart attack—we’d start CPR, or at the very least, call 9-1-1. But too few of us would know how to respond if we saw someone having a panic attack or if we were concerned that a friend or co-worker might be showing signs of alcoholism.

Mental Health First Aid takes the fear and hesitation out of starting conversations about mental health and substance use problems by improving understanding and providing an action plan that teaches people to safely and responsibly identify and address a potential mental illness or substance use disorder.

When more people are equipped with the tools they need to start a dialogue, more people can get the help they need. Mental Health First Aiders can even save lives. Hear from Mental Health First Aiders in your community about how they have used their training to make a difference.

Mental Health First Aiders are:

Teachers, first responders and veterans. They’re neighbors, parents and friends. They’re people in recovery, and those supporting a loved one They’re First Ladies and Mayors. Mental Health First Aiders are anyone who wants to make their community healthier, happier and safer for all.

There are 2 trainings available:

  • Adult Mental Health First Aid: teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults.  
  • Youth Mental Health First Aid: teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among children and adolescents ages 6-18.

How long is this training?

  • 8 hours: in-person, instructor-led class 

What will I learn in the YOUTH Mental Health First Aid training? 

  • Learn how to respond with the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE): 
    • A ssess for risk of suicide or harm. 
    • L isten non judgmentally. 
    • G ive reassurance and information. 
    • E ncourage appropriate professional help. 
    • E ncourage self-help and other support strategies.
  • What Mental Health First Aid Covers:  
    • Common signs and symptoms of mental health challenges in this age group, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD). 
    • Common signs and symptoms of substance use challenges. 
    • How to interact with a child or adolescent in crisis.  
    • How to connect the youth with help.
    • Expanded content on trauma, substance use, self-care and the impact of social media and bullying

TO REQUEST A TRAINING:

Reach out to Lisa Murphy at director@mentalhealthpolk.org.