Mental Health First Aid:

• Introduces to risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems,
• Builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and
• Most importantly, teaches how to help someone who is in crisis or experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge.

Mental Health First Aid is now virtual. The overall course is eight (8) hours, which includes two (2) hours of self-paced pre-work and six (6) hours live virtual training. Available courses:

   

• Mental Health First Aid (Adult)
• Youth Mental Health First Aid (for adults who live or work with adolescents)

In addition to courses that are available for individual enrollment, you can also request a customized group Mental Health First Aid course.

There is a $25 materials fee for these courses. Fairfax County government employees attend free of charge.

Mental Health First Aid uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to assess a mental health crisis; select interventions and provide initial help; and connect people to professional, peer, social, and self-help care. Participants do not learn to diagnose, nor how to provide any therapy or counseling – rather, participants gain concrete tools and answers to key questions like "What can I do?" and "Where can someone find help?" and a core five-step action plan to support someone developing signs and symptoms of mental illness or in an emotional crisis.