Training for Adults
Mental Health First Aid® is a skills-based training that teaches people how to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of a mental health or substance use challenge in adults ages 18 and over. The evidence behind the program demonstrates that it builds mental health literacy, providing an action plan that teaches people to safely and responsibly identify and address a potential mental health or substance use challenge. Mental Health First Aid is sometimes called Adult Mental Health First Aid.
Youth Mental Health First Aid® is a skills-based training that teaches parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors and health and human services workers and any other citizen how to identify, understand and respond to an adolescent (ages 12-18) who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge.
Course Formats
In-person: 7.5 hours for MHFA or 6.5 hours for Youth MHFA – up to 30 participants
Blended In-person: 2 hours self-paced online learning, followed by 4.5 hours (Youth) or 5.5 hours (Adult) in-person training – up to 30 participants
Blended Virtual: 2 hours self-paced online learning, followed by 4.5 hours (Youth) or 5.5 hours (Adult) live virtual training – up to 30 participants
Training for Teens
teen Mental Health First Aid® is a skills-based training that teaches teens in grades 10-12, or ages 15-18, how to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of a mental health or substance use challenge among their friends and peers. The program equips young people with the knowledge and skills they need to take care of their own mental health and to support each other, including how to get the help of a trusted adult.
Course Format
In-person: Lessons are conducted in person in six 45-minute sessions or three 90-minute sessions.
Blended: Teens complete a self-paced online lesson, then participate in six live, Instructor-led sessions. Instructor-led sessions can be video conferences or in-person classes.
A school or youth-serving organization must apply to become a tMHFA site and meet program and safety requirements.