Mental Health First Aid Basic

This workshop teaches participants how to help someone who is showing signs of a mental health problem or is experiencing a mental health crisis.

Just like physical first aid is provided until medical treatment can be obtained, Mental Health First Aid is given until appropriate support is found or until the crisis is resolved.

MHFA Basic is a training course offered by the Mental Health Commission of Canada. It is intended for adults interacting with adults (18 years and older). During the 2-day, 12-hour certified course you will gain an:

• Increased awareness of the signs and symptoms of the most common mental health problems
• Increased confidence interacting with individuals experiencing a mental health problem or crisis
• Understanding of the stigma related to mental health and how to minimize it

Topics Covered In The Basic Workshop Include:

• Common mental health problems
• Five basic actions of mental health first aid
• Substance use disorders – includes crisis response for an overdose
• Mood-related disorders – includes crisis response for suicidal behavior
• Anxiety-related disorders – includes crisis response for a panic attack
• Trauma-related disorders – includes crisis response for acute stress reaction
• Psychotic disorders – includes crisis response for a psychotic episode

Who Should Attend?

Front line staff, teachers, health service providers, emergency workers, human resources professionals, employers, community groups, volunteers, etc.Attendance is required at both sessions in order to receive your certificate.

What are the benefits of having a Mental Health First Aid certificate?According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, 20% of all sick leaves are related to mental health.

The Great-West Life Assurance Company reports that 30% of all disability claims are related to mental health and that depression is a secondary diagnosis in 75% of long-term disability claims.

Employers who set a strategic direction for improving mental health in the workplace benefit greatly and are rewarded with significant improvements in:

• Productivity: Psychologically healthy employees work efficiently.
• Cost Savings due to Disability and Absenteeism: There is a strong link between mental health, physical well-being, and injury prevention.
• Operational Success: Mentally healthy workplaces are characterized by higher levels of employee motivation, commitment, creativity, fewer errors, better decision making, and improved planning.
• Recruitment and Retention: Today’s employees are looking for a workplace that supports their personal and professional growth.

Registration

Cost is $250.00 per person and includes a manual and a certificate of completion. The course runs from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM both days. Participants must attend both days to obtain MHFA Certification.