Part of a National Initiative to Increase Mental Health Literacy
Youth Mental Health First Aid Training
YMHFA is skills-based training that teaches people how to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of a mental health or substance use challenge.
Similar to physical First Aid and CPR, MHFA helps you assist someone experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis until professional assistance is obtained or the crisis is resolved.
Youth Mental Health First Aid does not train learners to diagnose or provide therapy.
What is
Youth Mental Health First Aid?
And what does it teach?
5-step Action Plan
Mental Health First Aiders learn a 5-step Action Plan to recognize warning signs of a mental health or substance use challenge, provide help in crisis and non-crisis situations and understand where to turn for additional assistance.
Increased Knowledge
Peer-reviewed studies have proven that trained Mental Health First Aiders are more knowledgeable and confident when it comes to identifying and helping an individual in distress.
• Many people know to call 911 or administer CPR for a physical health emergency but hesitate to start conversations about mental health and substance use. MHFA provides the tools a layperson needs to take action.
• Studies show that MHFA training reduces stigma, improves knowledge and increases first aid actions toward people experiencing mental health and substance use challenges.
• MHFA is proven to be effective in teaching adults how to recognize and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges. Peer-reviewed studies from around the world show that individuals trained in MHFA:
» Expand their knowledge of signs, symptoms and risk factors of mental health and substance use challenges.
» Can identify appropriate types of professionals and self-help resources for individuals with a mental health or substance use challenge.
» Have increased confidence in and likelihood to help an individual in distress.
» Show increased mental wellbeing themselves.
Upcoming Trainings
Trainings for Organizations
To schedule an on-site training for your school or organization, please fill out the form linked below.
Trainings for Coaches
**the coaches training uses examples and resources specific to coaches & athletes**
No current trainings scheduled.
