Mental Health
First Aid

Mental Health First Aid is an 8-hour evidence-based course that teaches individuals how to recognize and respond to mental health and substance use issues.

Since 2015, we have offered this course in Fauquier and Rappahannock counties, training over 4,000 individuals.

Why Take Mental Health First Aid?

Mental illnesses are common - 50% of us will experience a mental health challenge at some time in our lives

Learn how to provide initial help to someone who is experiencing symptoms or is in crisis

Be prepared to support a friend, family member, or colleague who is struggling with a mental health or substance use issue

  • "Made me feel much better prepared to help my students."

  • I was able to develop skills that helped me understand what a person with mental health challenges is going through."

  • "Situations where we don’t know what to say, or if we should say anything at all – this training changes all that."

  • "I left with great knowledge of first aid for mental health. Thank you for sharing this information that I can use each and every day."

  • "This is a course that all should take."

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 addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people.

ADULT Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid for Adults teaches people how to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges in adults ages 18 and older, how to offer and provide initial help, and how to guide a person toward appropriate care if necessary.

teen Mental Health First Aid

teen MHFA is an evidence-based course developed to teach teens in grades 9-12, or ages 14-18, how to assist and support a friend or classmate who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge — and get assistance from a trusted adult.