The root of most stigmas is generally fear. The stigma surrounding mental illnesses in America is no different: fear of not understanding the problem, fear of doing or saying the “wrong” thing, and fear of not knowing what to do when someone needs help. –National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an in-person 8-hour training course that teaches community members how to help persons developing a mental illness or experiencing a mental health crisis. MHFA training is proven to make people feel more comfortable managing a crisis situation and also builds mental health literacy — helping the public identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness in an appropriate and timely manner.
Why is Mental Health First Aid Training Important?
One in four Americans will experience a mental health problem each year – yet most will suffer alone and go without treatment. In the next decade the National Council for Behavioral Health expects Mental Health First Aid to become as common as CPR training.
Here’s why it’s so important:
- Professional help is not always on hand when a mental health crisis arises
- Many people do not know how to recognize mental health and substance abuse problems, how to properly handle them when they are recognized, or what treatments are available
- The lack of adequate training can lead to inaction when assistance could be provided, creating the potential for the situation to worsen
- People with mental health problems may not realize they need help or that help is available to them
Who Can be Trained in Mental Health First Aid?
Almost anyone! Mental Health First Aid is designed to reach a variety of non mental health professionals, including the general public. While everyone can benefit from the training, there are some key members of the community for whom Mental Health First Aid Training is particularly important:
- Law enforcement officers
- Emergency responders
- Healthcare professionals and community providers
- Teachers and school administrators
- College faculty, administrators and staff
- Human resources professionals
- Faith leaders
- Nursing home staff
- Community associations
- Businesses and Chambers of Commerce
- Family and friends of those with behavioral health disorders
- Anyone interested in learning more about behavioral health care
What Will You Learn from Mental Health First Aid Training?
- The signs of addictions and mental illnesses
- A 5-step action plan to assess a situation and help
- The impact of mental and substance use disorders
- Local resources and where to turn for help
What does it cost?
MHCRS offers the Mental Health First Aid Course for $75/person. This includes the 8-hour training with a nationally certified instructor, the full color MHFA training manual and a certificate of completion(upon attending all 8-hours). Light refreshments are provided.
A discounted rate may be offered to non-profits or service organizations. Contact us to see if your organization qualifies.
The national average cost for MHFA is approximately $120 to $150/per person. MHCRS understands the economic challenges facing individuals and companies and has worked intentionally to minimize costs of this vital training in order to eliminate barriers and increase access.