Mental Health First Aid
As part of the
Thrive NYC initiative, the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is offering free Mental Health First Aid training to all New Yorkers. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a groundbreaking public education program that teaches the skills needed to identify,
understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges or crises.
Research shows that Mental Health First Aid leads to:
• Greater recognition of behavioral health challenges
• Increased confidence in one’s ability to help
• Increased amount of help provided
• Decreased stigmatizing attitudes while promoting inclusion
Adult and Youth MHFA courses are offered on a regular basis at NYC DOHMH.
Event Details
About the Course:
Mental Health First Aid is a groundbreaking public education program which introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems, builds understanding of their impact, and overviews common treatments. Mental Health First Aid
is an 8-hour course, which uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to assess a mental health crisis; select interventions and provide initial help; and connect persons to professional, peer, social, and self-help care. The program also teaches
about the risk factors and warning signs of specific illnesses like anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions.
MHFA is the initial help given to someone who may be developing a mental illness or experiencing a mental health crisis. The aid provided is not a substitute for professional help, but may help in stabilizing the person until appropriate professional or
other assistance can be engaged.This one day 8-hour certification course teaches non- mental health professionals how to give first aid to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis and/or who are in the early stages of a mental health disorder. Participants
learn the sign and symptoms of the most common mental health problems, where and when to get help, and types of help shown to be effective.
Who should attend this one day training?
Everyone 18 and older is invited to participate.
Training Times:
8:30- 5:30 pm
For more information please contact
nycmhfa@health.nyc.gov
Certification Programs
Adult Certification
Adult Mental Health First Aid is appropriate for adults 18 years and older who want to learn how to help a person who may be experiencing a mental health related crisis or problem. The course teaches participants a five-step action plan
to support someone developing signs and symptoms of a mental illness or in an emotional crisis. Topics covered include: anxiety, depression, psychosis, and substance use disorders. The adult course is available in both English and Spanish. Course participants
come from a variety of backgrounds and play various roles in a community.
Register
Online
Ryan M Camire, LCSW, CASAC
University Director of Mental Health and Wellness
City University of New York | Central Office of Student Affairs
555 West 57th Street | Suite 1401 | New York, NY 10019
t: 646.664.8800 | f: 646.664.8861
