Mental Health First Aid
Hybrid (2 hours self-paced pre-work + 6 hours instructor-led workshop)
Mental Health First Aid
Hybrid (2 hours self-paced pre-work + 6 hours instructor-led workshop)
Program Overview
Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based public education program that introduces participants to the risk factors and warning signs of mental health and substance use challenges. It does not teach participants to be therapists; rather, it provides a "mental health life-preserver" to stabilize an individual, minimize harm, and bridge the gap until professional support can be accessed.
- The ALGEE Action Plan Core Concept: Mastery of the 5-step evidence-based intervention strategy.
A: Assess for risk of suicide or harm.
L: Listen non-judgmentally.
G: Give reassurance and information.
E: Encourage appropriate professional help.
E: Encourage self-help and other support strategies.
- Distinguishing Signs (Non-Crisis) Core Concept: Understanding the threshold between normative life stress and clinical disorders.
Focus Areas: Early identification of symptoms associated with Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, and substance use disorders.
- Crisis Response Protocols Core Concept: Executing immediate life-safety protocols.
Focus Areas: Specific de-escalation and safety measures for individuals at risk of suicide, self-injury, panic attacks, or acute psychotic episodes.
Learning Objectives
- Apply the 5-step ALGEE action plan with fidelity in simulated crisis scenarios.
- Differentiate between self-injury (non-suicidal) and suicidal intent.
- Identify the specific physical and behavioral warning signs of common mental health disorders.
- Navigate local referral networks to effectively connect individuals with appropriate professional care.
Requirements
- Pre-Work: Completion of 2 hours of mandatory digital pre-study material covering foundational concepts.
- Participation: Active engagement in the full-day, in-person or virtual facilitated workshop.
- Proficiency Assessment: Successful completion of the 40-question standardized National Council certification exam.