Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid Canada

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health first aid is the help provided to a person developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. The first aid is given until appropriate professional treatment is received or until the crisis is resolved. The concept is based on the model of medical first aid.

Some mental health problems are more common than many physical health problems. While people often know a lot about physical illness, most people have little knowledge about mental illness. This lack of understanding promotes fear and stigma. It prevents people from seeking help early and seeking the best kind of help.

What is the purpose of the course?

Mental Health First Aid teaches participants to help someone showing signs of a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. The course aims to teach people to:

• Identify when a person may be a danger to themselves or to others and take steps to preserve life
• Recognize the early signs of mental health problems and provide help to prevent more serious problems from developing
• Provide comfort to someone with a mental health problem and support them in the recovery of their mental health
• Guide a person towards the appropriate professional help

Course Format

Mental Health First Aid Basic is a 12-hour training course with a focus on adults with mental health problems. This is an interactive course that provides a supportive group learning environment.

Anyone can benefit from learning Mental Health First Aid.

See also:

• First Aid Training