Mental Health First Aid
Join an upcoming class to become a mental health first aider!
Much like CPR teaches us to respond to a physical health crisis, Mental Health First Aid teaches us to respond to a mental health crisis.
Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. This training gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care. It focuses on the unique experiences and needs of first responders and is a valuable resource that can make a difference in their lives, their coworkers’ and families’ lives, and the communities they serve.
Mental Health First Aid – Adults
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.
Mental Health First Aid – Youth
Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.
If you have additional questions, please contact Bridget Mouchon, Health and Well-Being Educator, Extension, Lafayette and Green Counties, blmouchon@wisc.edu
