Mental Health First Aid

    What is Mental Health First Aid?

    In today's world, most people are familiar with physical health, but mental health and substance use issues often remain misunderstood. This knowledge gap can lead to fear, stigma, and negative perceptions of individuals facing these challenges. As a result, many hesitate to seek help or struggle to provide support to others in need.

    This is where Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) comes in. MHFA is an evidence-based program designed to close this gap by teaching individuals how to recognize, understand, and respond effectively to mental health and substance use crises. By completing MHFA training, participants not only acquire essential skills for supporting others, but also gain personal benefits that enhance their own well-being and resilience.

    Whether you’re looking to support colleagues, family, or friends, MHFA training in Canada provides the tools you need to make a meaningful difference. Learn how to effectively respond to mental health crises and become a more confident, compassionate individual.

    Course Outline

    Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training in Canada: Support for Mental Health and Substance Use Crises

    Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to assist those experiencing a mental health crisis or a decline in their well-being. This certified course teaches participants how to:

    • Identify Signs of Mental Health Decline or Crisis: Recognize the warning signs of mental health or substance use crises in others.
    • Facilitate Conversations About Mental Health: Encourage open dialogue about mental health challenges and substance use, promoting understanding and seeking help.
    • Provide Immediate Assistance During Crises: Learn how to support individuals in the midst of a mental health or substance use emergency.
    • Enhance Personal Well-Being: Apply MHFA strategies to maintain and improve your own mental health.

    MHFA Course Modules:

    • Module 1: Self-Guided (2 Hours): This foundational module introduces the key concepts and essential actions of Mental Health First Aid.
    • Module 2: Live Training (3.5 Hours): Focuses on applying MHFA techniques in real-world scenarios, helping participants support people with declining mental health.
    • Module 3: Live Training (3.5 Hours): Emphasizes crisis management skills, while underscoring the importance of self-care for the MHFA responder.

    Course Participant Requirements:

    • Online MHFA Sessions: 8 to 15 participants.
    • Face-to-Face MHFA Sessions: 8 to 25 participants.

    Enroll in MHFA training today and become equipped to make a difference in your community, workplace, or school. Whether online or in-person, our MHFA course in Canada offers comprehensive, practical skills for supporting mental health and substance use crises.

    How It Works

    • Step 1: Sign Up Your Team

      • Select your preferred virtual or in-person training date.
      • Choose either a full day of training (7.5 Hours) or 2 half days (3.5 Hours).

    • Step 2: Pre-Course Preparation

      Complete a self-directed online
      module (Module 1) within two weeks from the start of your live training session.
      (approximately 2 hours)

    • Step 3: Live Training Session

      Participate in a live classroom session (Modules 2&3) with a certified Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) instructor.

      (Two sessions, 3.5 hours each)
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    Upcoming Public Courses

    • Mental Health First Aid Training Course

      The MHFA Training course is an evidence-based program that provides people with tools to assist others experiencing a decline in their mental well-being.

      Course Date:

      • January 22, 2025
      • 9 - 4:30PM (EST)
      Sign Up Now! 

    • Mental Health First Aid Training Course

      The MHFA Training course is an evidence-based program that provides people with tools to assist others experiencing a decline in their mental well-being.

      Course Date:

      • March 21, 2025
      • 9 - 4:30PM (EST)
      Sign Up Now! 

    Certificate Awarded Upon Successful Completion

    As a trained and certified Mental Health First Aider, you'll receive an official certification from Opening Minds.

    The certification is acknowledged in 20 countries worldwide.

    Listen to what some of our past participants thought about the course...

    • Tessah MacDowall

      In 3 modules, one self directed and the other two kept to 3-hours in length including breaks. It was a safe space and I felt comfortable. Sherry, the instructor, was amazing. She was so great at keeping us engaged and had so much knowledge and experience to share. She went above and beyond to make the course a great experience. Can't wait to be able to put my skills into practice!

    • Kim Nelson

      I thought the course content was relevant to the current social climate surrounding Mental Health. Addressing the stigma surrounding mental health and teaching people how to approach someone who could be in crisis with the ALGEES techniques will raise much needed awareness with this formal training. I think every employer and employee should take this training!

    • Jennifer Bishop

      This course was by far the BEST course I have ever taken. The instructor was amazing and engaged our team. The day went by so quickly and I never felt bored or unengaged. Dan is an amazing instructor, he is well organized and knows a lot about mental health. He approaches teaching in a way that is exciting and makes you understand what your role is to help staff and others.

    Interested in Mental Health Training for your organization? Let's talk!

    Book a Meeting

    Interested in bringing our services to your workplace?

    Still have some questions or concerns?

    Broadmind is on your team.

    Book a free consultation with our founder and lead facilitator, Sherry Lachine.

    Book Meeting