Mental Health First Aid is a public education program that introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems, builds understanding of their impact and overviews appropriate supports. This 8-hour course uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to offer initial help in a mental health crisis and connect people to the appropriate professional, peer, social and self-help care. The program also teaches common risk factors and warning signs of specific illnesses like anxiety, depression, substance use, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and schizophrenia.
Mental Health First Aid is included on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP).
Course Details
Mental Health First Aid teaches participants a five-step action plan, ALGEE, to support someone developing signs and symptoms of a mental illness or experiencing an emotional crisis:
- Assess for risk of suicide or harm
- Listen nonjudgmentally
- Give reassurance and information
- Encourage appropriate professional help
- Encourage self-help and other support strategies
Virtual Training
In response to the changes caused by Covid-19 in our world, The National Council developed a special curriculum to provide MHFA training virtually. This new curriculum includes expanded content on trauma, addiction, and self-care.
The virtual course is 7.5 hours in length. First Aiders will complete a 2 hour, self paced class, and then participate in a 5.5 hour, instructor-led class using videoconferencing technology.
Scheduling and Information
Mental Health First Aid training is offered FREE of charge to faculty and staff of Local ISDs, colleges, and Universities. To schedule your FREE training or if you have any questions regarding MHFA please contact Kyrstin Ball at kball@texomacc.org
Upcoming Mental Health First Aid courses
The health, safety, and wellbeing of our community is our highest priority.
| Date: | Name of LMHA/LBHA: | Youth, Adult, or Teen Course: | Type: (Virtual, In Person, or Blended) | Location: | Availability: | For More information: |
| 11/8/2024 | TCC | Adult MHFA | In Person | TCC | FULL | kball@texomacc.org |
| 11/29/2024 | TCC | Adult MHFA | In Person | TCC | FULL | kball@texomacc.org |
| 12/20/2024 | TCC | Adult MHFA | In Person | TCC | FULL | kball@texomacc.org |