Mental Health First Aid Training

Why Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an evidence-based training course that teaches everyday people how to recognize, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges. Whether you’re a teacher, coach, parent, or caring friend — you can be a powerful support for someone in crisis.

MHFA gives you the skills to notice the signs, start the conversation, and connect someone to help — before a crisis becomes a tragedy.

Youth & Teen Mental Health First Aid

For ages 12–18 and those who support them

Adolescence is a time of intense growth and vulnerability. Mental health struggles often first appear in the teen years — and most go unaddressed.

• 1 in 5 teens will experience a mental health challenge by age 18
• Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for youth ages 15–19
• 10.2% of youth will be diagnosed with a substance use disorder
• 64% of teens with mental health challenges don’t seek help
  (Sources: NAMI, Youth MHFA, Archives of General Psychiatry)

Youth MHFA helps teens:

• Recognize signs of mental health and substance use issues
• Support their peers and know when to involve a trusted adult
• Build confidence in managing their own emotional wellbeing

Adult Mental Health First Aid

For ages 18+ and those who support them

Mental Health First Aid for Adults teaches people how to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges in adults ages 18 and older, how to offer and provide initial help, and how to guide a person toward appropriate care if necessary. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, psychosis, and addictions.