Mental Health First Aid Essentials

• The course modules are delivered in sequential order, as each module builds on learning from the previous module.
• Participant may take the course virtually or in person.
• Participants must complete all the modules in the same delivery format with the same group/cohort.
• The course is six (6) hours in duration and may be delivered:
  - On the same day, with breaks between modules
  - On two half-days within one week, at three hours per half day, with breaks between modules

  To receive a certificate of completion, participants must complete a full course.

The MHFA course helps participants:

Increase their awareness of mental health

• Distinguish between mental health, mental illness, and mental health conditions.
• Recognize indicators of mental health across the continuum (optimal, declining, poor).

Improve their confidence to provide help

• Apply the ALGES framework in scenarios of declining mental health and crisis.
• Demonstrate empathy and effective listening skills in supportive interactions.
• Communicate non-judgmentally using verbal and non-verbal skills.
• Provide reassurance and appropriate information in supportive conversations.
• Explain recovery-oriented approaches to providing support.

Decrease their mental health-related stigma

• Recognize stigmatizing language and practice respectful alternatives.
• Reflect on personal attitudes and biases that contribute to stigma.
• Understand risks and limitations associated with diagnostic labelling.

Enhance their mental health

• Identify personal self-care strategies using the Three Pillars of Self-Care: reflective, purposeful, and boundaries.
• Recognize when self-care is needed as a Mental Health First Aiders and how to integrate it into daily life.
• Commit to intentional self-care actions to maintain personal well-being as a Mental Health First Aider.

Mental Health First Aid does not teach participants to become therapists or counsellors. Rather, it provides the skills, knowledge, and attitudes that allow someone to offer effective first aid intervention.

This course flows through eight sections.

1. Welcome and Introductions
Participants set the stage by establishing group norms and guidelines for a safe, inclusive learning environment. They share initial expectations and perceived challenges to foster engagement throughout the course.

2. Goals of Mental Health First Aid
The overall goals and outcomes of the MHFA course are presented. Learners clarify the purpose and responsibilities associated with being a Mental Health First Aider.
By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

• Clarify the course objectives and the role of a Mental Health First Aider.

3. What is Mental Health?
This module introduces definitions of mental health, describes the experiences of people living with mental health disorders, and the risks of labelling. Participants explore the Mental Health Continuum, recognizing the complexity and variability of mental health.

By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

• Define mental health.
• Appreciate what support looks like to someone living with a mental health condition.
• Discuss risks and limitations associated with diagnostic labelling.
• Explain the mental health continuum model.

4. Elements of ALGES
Through interactive learning, learners familiarize themselves with the ALGES framework and gain clarity on each action to respond to a person experiencing mental health decline. The structured approach prepares participants for supportive interactions.
By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

• Explain each action of the ALGES framework clearly.
• Identify indicators of declining mental health.
• Demonstrate empathy.
• Effectively give reassurance.
• Handle challenges related to seeking mental health support.
• Understand the importance of a recovery orientation.
• Practice using respectful language.

5. Mental Health First Aid for Declining Mental Health
Through scenario-based activities, learners apply ALGES to situations involving declining mental health. They enhance skills in effective questioning, empathetic listening, and connecting individuals with resources, guided by recovery-oriented principles.
By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

• Apply ALGES to declining mental health scenarios.
• Challenge their assumptions about individuals needing support.
• Demonstrate effective questioning and non-judgmental communication.
• Provide empathetic reassurance, information, and connection to resources.
• Integrate a recovery orientation in providing support.

6. Self-Care for Mental Health First Aiders
This short module highlights the importance of self-care practices for maintaining personal mental health while supporting others. Participants develop an understanding of the definition of self-care.
By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

• Develop an understanding of the definition of self-care.

7. MHFA for Crisis Situations

Participants learn to recognize and respond effectively to the crisis situation of suicidal behaviour by applying ALGES appropriately. By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

• Recognize warning signs of suicide and respond effectively.
• Effectively apply ALGES to crisis situations.

8.Wrap-up and Closing
Participants review key course learnings and identify actionable next steps. They commit to enhancing personal well-being beyond the course.
By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

• Commit to self-care activities.
• Reflect on overall learning outcomes and their application.
• Identify next steps for ongoing mental health support and self-

6 hours total including breaks.

Virtual delivery: Minimum 8 participants, Maximum 15

Face-to-face delivery: Minimum 8 participants, Maximum 25

Pricing varies with location and number of participants. Please request a quote.

The course is delivered by a certified trainer for Mental Health First Aid Canada.

No previous training required.
Participants must be at least 18 years old.

After you have completed your Mental Health First Aid course, your instructor will submit the course roster to the Opening MInds/ Mental Health Commission (MHCC). Opening Minds will email you an link that includes a short survey and a participant certificate. This process takes about 1-2 weeks.