WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID?

Mental Health First Aid USA is a training — like regular First Aid or CPR — designed to give people the skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. The course uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to recognize and respond to the warning signs of specific illnesses.

Mental Health First Aid teaches participants a five-step action plan, ALGEE, to support someone developing signs and symptoms of a mental illness or in an emotional crisis:

• Assess for risk of suicide or harm
• Listen nonjudgmentally
• Give reassurance and information
• Encourage appropriate professional help
• Encourage self-help and other support strategies

MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education is designed with colleges’ and universities’ unique culture and resources in mind. Training students, parents of college students, faculty and others in higher education settings how to recognize the symptoms of emerging mental illnesses or to assist young adults in a mental health crisis can help lessen the severity and impact of mental illnesses.

The course includes:

• A discussion of campus culture and its relevance to the topic of mental health
• A discussion of the specific stress and risk factors faced by the higher education population
• Applying the ALGEE action plan in a number of scenarios designed specifically for faculty, administration and students
• A review of the mental health resources available on campus and through partnerships in the community

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Audio/video presentation
• Opportunities for group discussion and practice
• Earn 3-year certification
• Participants MUST attend the full 8 hour course to receive a certificate

The class will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a one hour break for lunch. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Thanks to the generous support of The Colorado Health Foundation, we are able to offer this class (valued at $50 in Colorado) at no charge as part of the Supporting Action for Mental Health program with the City of Longmont, Mental Health Partners, and Longmont United Hospital.

**A confirmation email will be sent to you after you register. If you do not receive this confirmation please email Julie Phillips to verify your registration.