What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an 8-hour course that teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. The training gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis. As a certified Mental Health First Aider, you will know how to implement the 5-Step MHFA Action Plan.

Participants in the MHFA courses have demonstrated improved confidence in providing initial help, increased the help that is given, and reduced stigma regarding mental health disorders. These results have fostered the international adoption and adaptation of the Mental Health First Aid, originally created in Australia.

Mental Health First Aider Courses

There are two types of Mental Health First Aid courses — adult and youth.

• Adult Mental Health First Aid course is designed for adults identifying and responding to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders.
• Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed for adults who work with youth to help them identify and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders and focuses on early intervention.

If you would like to set-up a group training for your organization contact info@mhfamissouri.org!

You can register for a course by visiting the National Mental Health First Aid website.

Upon completing one of the two course you have an opportunity to purchase Continuing Education Units.

Mental Health First Aid Instructor Courses

Mental Health First Aid USA is managed, operated, and disseminated by three national authorities – the National Council for Behavioral Health, the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the Missouri Department of Mental Health. Only the national authorities can train and certify instructors to teach the 8-hour Mental Health First Aid USA course in local communities.

You can apply to be a MHFA Instructor in Missouri by following the application instructions on the Mental Health First Aid Instructor Course page.

Not a Missouri Resident? Check out the Mental Health First Aid National Website to become certified as a MHFA Instructor.