What Is a Mental Health First Aider?
A Mental Health First Aider, also called a First Aider, is a person who has successfully completed a Mental Health First Aid training. First Aiders have empathy for people living with mental illness and substance use problems.
Their increased mental health literacy enables them to identify risk factors and warning signs for mental health and substance use challenges, confidence to provide strategies to help someone in crisis and non-crisis situations, and knowledge of where to turn for help.
Making a Difference in Your Community
Mental Health First Aiders play a critical role in supporting individuals during difficult moments. By recognizing warning signs early and responding appropriately, First Aiders can help guide people toward the help and support they need.
Communities with trained Mental Health First Aiders become safer, more compassionate, and more prepared to support mental wellness.
Your actions can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.
Mental Health First Aiders do not diagnose conditions or replace professional treatment. Instead, they serve as an important bridge between someone experiencing a mental health concern and the professional help they may need.
This training empowers individuals to respond with confidence, compassion, and understanding.
Mental Health First Aid Does…
- Decrease mental illness and substance use stigma
- Provide action plans to respond to signs and symptoms
- Increase mental health literacy
- Build confidence to support someone in crisis
- Offer a safe space for discussion
- Teach how to assess and refer for help
Mental Health First Aid Does Not…
- Teach diagnosis or treatment
- License participants as professionals
- Replace therapy or medical care
- Provide long-term treatment
- Act as emergency services
First Aiders Are…
- Supportive listeners
- Caring community member
- Part of a support system
- Informed and aware
- Resourceful helpers
First Aiders Are Not…
- Diagnosticians
- Therapists
- Medical professionals
- Crisis responders
- Long-term care providers
Who Should Take This Training?
Mental Health First Aid training is valuable for anyone who wants to support mental wellness in their community.
This training is especially helpful for:
- Teachers and school staff
- Community leaders
- Healthcare workers
- Parents and caregivers
- Employers and workplace teams
- Students and volunteers
- Anyone interested in supporting mental health awareness
No prior medical or mental health experience is required to become a Mental Health First Aider.
Become a Mental Health First Aider
Join our Mental Health First Aid training programs and gain the knowledge and confidence to support someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis.
Together, we can create stronger and healthier communities.