Identify. Understand. Respond.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an evidence-based, early-intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges. Mental Health First Aid is a 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. Mental Health First Aiders are teachers, first responders, and veterans. They’re neighbors, parents and friends. They’re people in recovery, and those supporting a loved one. Mental Health First Aiders are anyone who wants to make their community healthier, happier, and safer for all.
How to Become a Mental Health First Aider
SDSU Extension has individuals trained to teach Adult, Teen, and Youth Mental Health First Aid. The adult Mental Health First Aid course is appropriate for anyone age 18 and older who wants to learn how to help a person who may be experiencing a mental health related crisis or problem. Teen Mental Health First Aid teaches teens in grades 9-12, or ages 14-18, how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among their friends and peers. Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, 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.
Classes are available in-person or virtually. Both options require the online self-paced course to be completed prior to the live training. The online portion takes around 2-3 hours, followed by the live portion of the course, which is approximately 6 hours (class times depend on class size and delivery format). Recommended class sizes range from 15-25.
Please view the Upcoming Events section below to find upcoming Mental Health First Aid classes or fill out the form below to request a class.
