Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid
Equipping participants with the skills and confidence to recognize and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in their community.
Table of Contents
Overview
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a program designed to teach participants how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health concerns or illness and substance use disorders. The program provides participants with the skills and confidence to provide initial support to those experiencing a crisis. Through evidence-based practices, MHFA equips individuals with practical skills to offer initial assistance and guide individuals towards appropriate care.
The Adult MHFA curriculum focuses on identifying signs of mental health or substance use concerns in adults aged 18 and older. The Youth MHFA curriculum was developed for adults to support the young people in their lives, while the Teen MHFA curriculum empowers teenagers to support their peers. These programs ensure comprehensive readiness for various mental health situations, promoting resilience and enhancing mental well-being across diverse communities. Mental Health First Aid programs also seek to reduce the stigma around mental health concerns and in turn increase conversations and access to appropriate care and supports.
Whom We Serve
Ways We Help
Training Sessions: In-person and virtual courses for individuals and organizations.
Resources: Access to educational materials and support tools.
Community Outreach: Partnerships with local organizations to promote mental health awareness.
Youth Programs: Tailored training for young people and those who work with them.
How It Works
We facilitate
Attend a Mental Health First Aid training session.
We teach
Learn to identify signs of mental health or substance use issues.
We improve
Gain skills to provide initial assistance and support.
We support
Guide individuals towards appropriate supports and care.
Success & Impact
The Year of Mental Health
The Behavioral Health Program delivered evidence-based mental health programs to equip community members with the skills needed to recognize and respond to signs of mental health issues.
Quick Links
Get Involved
Request a Mental Health First Aid course for your organization
Learn more about Mental Health First Aid
Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding this program in Wisconsin, please contact us through the info below:
Kristina Davenport
administrative Assistant, Health and Well-Being Institute
Mental Health First Aid is a program of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. It was brought to the United States in 2008 with the aim to make it as common as physical First Aid and CPR. Since the National Council brought MHFA to the U.S. in 2008, MHFA has established itself as a trusted, evidence-based training program.
Other Programs You May Like
WeCOPE
An evidence-based program that helps adults cope with life stress.
Learning to Breathe
Teaching youth participants to experience the present moment with compassion and openness using a research-based mindfulness curriculum.
StrongBodies
Fitness program designed to help individuals of all ages build strength, flexibility, and balance.
