Mental Health First Aid Certification Program

Mental health first aid (MHFA)

MHFA is a public education program that introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health challenges, builds understanding of their impact and provides an overview of appropriate supports. The 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 mental health challenges.

Each class is provided in a blended format:

• The first portion of the course takes place on an e-learning platform in a self-paced, on-demand format. Participants will be invited to complete this on their own.

• The second portion of the course is led by an instructor. Held over Zoom, this part of the course provides an interactive experience for 6.5 hours of synchronous learning.

This course teaches attendees how to apply the ALGEE action plan:

• Assess for risk of suicide or harm.

• Listen nonjudgmentally.

• Give reassurance and information.

• Encourage appropriate professional help.

• Encourage self-help and other support strategies.

As part of their enrollment, each participant will have access to:

• The Mental Health First Aid Participant E-Manual, which provides detailed information on how to use the MHFA five-step action plan, plus peer-reviewed research on signs, symptoms and how to support others

• The Participant Processing Guide, used throughout the course

• National mental health resources

• A Self-Care Action Plan