ARTURO J. CASTRO, CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR

Identify. Understand. Respond.

Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based, early-intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges.

Our Services

ABOUT

Empower yourself to make a difference by becoming certified in Mental Health First Aid!

This invaluable course equips you with the skills to identify and respond to the signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges. You’ll learn how to offer crucial initial support to individuals in need until they can connect with the right professional help.

Throughout the training, you'll explore risk factors and warning signs of mental health and addiction issues, effective strategies for assisting those in crisis and non-crisis situations, and key resources for ongoing support. Take this important step to be a source of hope and help for others!

Topics Covered

Depression and mood disorders

  • Anxiety disorders

  • Trauma

  • Psychosis

  • Substance Use disorders

Mental Health First Aid teaches about recovery and resiliency – the belief that individuals experiencing these challenges can get better, and use their strengths to stay well.

The Mental Health First Aid Action Plan

Assess for risk of suicide or harmListen nonjudgmentally. Give reassurance and Information. Encourage appropriate professional help. Encourage self-help and other support strategies.

  • Assess for risk of suicide or harm

  • Listen non-judgmentally

  • Give reassurance and information

  • Encourage appropriate professional help

  • Encourage self-help and other support strategies

Interventions Learned

When you take a course, you learn how to apply the Mental Health First Aid action plan in a variety of situations, including when someone is experiencing:

  • Panic attacks

  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

  • Nonsuicidal self-injury

  • Acute psychosis (e.g., hallucinations or delusions)

  • Overdose or withdrawal from alcohol or drug use

  • Reaction to a traumatic event

The opportunity to practice — through role plays, scenarios, and activities — makes it easier to apply these skills in a real-life situation.