What You’ll Learn in a Mental Health First Aid Course

Have you ever been in a situation where someone you care about was clearly struggling, but you didn’t know what to say or do or how to help? Most of us have. Mental health challenges are more common than ever, yet many people still feel unsure or unprepared when it comes to offering support.

That’s where Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) comes in! Just like CPR teaches you how to respond in a physical emergency, MHFA gives you the tools to recognize signs of mental distress (approach someone with confidence and compassion, and connect them to the help they need). Whether you're supporting a friend, co-worker, or even yourself, MHFA can empower you to make a real difference. 

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a course that teaches you a wide range of practical skills that can help you in your everyday life, whether you're supporting a friend, a co-worker, a family member, or anyone who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis.

These skills include, but are not limited to:

• Recognizing signs of mental health issues

• Providing appropriate support to someone in distress

• Gaining a deeper understanding of mental health and the types of crises that can occur

• Reducing stigma and building empathy

• Learning how to take care of your own mental well-being

  
  

Recognizing Mental Health Problems

Learning to identify early warning signs of mental health problems is a core skill that is learned with this course. These signs might include noticeable changes in behavior, mood swings, withdrawal from social activities, or even physical symptoms (fatigue or lack of motivation). The earlier you recognize these signs, the sooner you can offer support that can help connect an individual to professional resources. 

Providing the Right Kind of Support

MHFA teaches you how to approach someone in crisis in a calm, respectful, and non-judgmental way. You'll learn how to listen effectively, offer reassurance, and guide someone toward appropriate help. It's about being a bridge to the next step in their recovery or support journey.

Understanding Mental Health Crises

The MHFA course also covers the types of mental health crises people might face (panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, or substance use overdose). Understanding the risks and how these crises unfold helps you respond appropriately. You’ll gain tools and strategies that make a real difference in moments when someone needs immediate support.

Reducing Stigma, Building Empathy

MHFA helps you see mental health through a compassionate and empathetic lens. Many people still face stigma or shame when dealing with mental illness, which often prevents them from reaching out for help. MHFA encourages open conversations, understanding, and empathy, allowing you to be part of the solution in breaking down those barriers.

Taking Care of Your Own Mental Health

MHFA isn’t just about helping others, it also encourages you to reflect on your own mental wellness. With all the skills this course teaches you about mental health, you can also apply those skills to your own mental health journey. The course teaches valuable self-care practices and helps you recognize when you might need support, too.

Why It Matters Today

Mental health is a vital part of our day-to-day lives, especially in today’s fast-paced and often stressful world. Whether you’re dealing with stress at work, supporting a loved one through a tough time, or just trying to manage your own emotional well-being, having mental health literacy is more important than ever. MHFA empowers you to respond with kindness, knowledge, and confidence when it matters most.

You never know when someone might need that first line of support and you could be the one to offer it. It’s a simple, powerful way to show up for others and build a healthier, more understanding community (and world!).

Explore Mental Health First Aid Training

View Infographic: What You’ll Learn in a Mental Health First Aid Course