Mental Health First Aid Courses
Testimonials from community members trained in Mental Health First Aid:
What Is Mental Health First Aid?
The Mental Health Association of Fauquier County has been offering Mental Health First Aid courses in Fauquier and Rappahannock counties since 2015. This 8-hour evidence-based course, offered across the U.S. and in several other countries, helps individuals recognize when someone is experiencing a mental health or substance-use related issue.
Within this course, you learn how to identify the risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns as well as strategies for helping someone in crisis and non-crisis situations.
TOPICS COVERED IN THE COURSE INCLUDE:
- Depression and mood disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Trauma
- Substance Use Disorders
- Psychosis
Why sign up for Mental Health First Aid?
- Mental illnesses are common – 50% of us will experience a mental health challenge at some time in our lives
- Mental Health First Aid can prepare you to be there for a friend, family member or colleague who is struggling with a mental health or substance use issue
- Learn the signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use problems
- Learn how to provide initial help to someone who is experiencing symptoms or is in crisis
The Mental Health Association of Fauquier County is thrilled that over 2,000 individuals in this community have been trained to date in Mental Health First Aid. We continue to offer classes free of charge to individuals in Fauquier, Rappahannock and Culpeper counties.
We Offer Three Course Options:
YOUTH Mental Health First Aid
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 addiction challenge or is in crisis.
ADULT Mental Health First Aid
ADULT Mental Health First Aid – This course is appropriate for anyone 18 years and older who wants to learn how to help another adult who may be experiencing a mental health or addiction challenge or is in crisis.
teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA)
teen Mental Health First Aid teaches high school students how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders among their friends and peers. The training gives students the skills to have supportive conversations with their friends and get a responsible and trusted adult to take over as necessary. It is designed to be delivered in schools or community sites in three interactive classroom sessions of 90 minutes each or six sessions of 45 minutes each.