Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid from National Council for Mental Wellbeing logo

Mental Health First Aiders are…

Teachers, first responders and veterans. They’re neighbors, parents and friends. They’re people in recovery, and those supporting a loved one. Mental Health First Aiders are anyone who wants to make their community healthier, happier and safer for all.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use challenge and help connect them to the appropriate care. This evidence-based training will teach you how to apply the ALGEE action plan:

  • Assess for risk of suicide or harm
  • Listen nonjudgmentally
  • Give reassurance and information
  • Encourage appropriate professional help
  • Encourage self-help and other support strategies

MHFA training is currently being offered for FREE due to support from grant funding. See the MHFA Events page for a complete list of trainings.

MU Extension and USDA logos and USDA grant number for grant that supports this program

Dial 988 for Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Need help now?

Dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org.

Events and online courses

Resources

Mental Health First Aid tools and tips

How to manage your mental health when feeling stressed during COVID-19.

Mental Health Month Toolkit (PDF)

For Mental Health Awareness Month, MU Extension and Missouri partners have put together this toolkit offering resources to help strengthen farmer resilience and protect their mental health.

National Council for Mental Wellbeing

Membership organization that drives policy and social change to promote "Healthy Minds and Strong Communities." They train facilitators in the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges.

Contact us: