Virginia Community Health Worker Association

Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. This 8-hour training 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 problem and help connect them to the appropriate care.

Topics of Discussion

• Common signs and symptoms of mental illness.
• Common signs and symptoms of substance use.
• How to interact with a person in crisis.
• How to connect the person with help.
• NEW: How to administer naloxone in the event of an opioid overdose.

Objectives

• Describe the purpose of Mental Health First Aid and the role of the Mental Health First Aider.
• Identify the impact of mental health challenges on the well-being of adults in the U.S.
• Explain that recovery from a mental health challenge is possible.
• Describe the principles of safety and privacy for both the Mental Health First Aider and the person receiving first aid.
• Explain the 5 steps of the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE).
• Recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges that may impact adults.
• Evaluate the impact of early intervention on mental health challenges.
• Apply the appropriate steps of the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE) when a person shows early signs of a mental health challenge.
• Apply the appropriate steps of the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE) when a person shows worsening signs of a mental health challenge.
• Apply the appropriate steps of the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE) to crisis situations.
• Choose appropriate methods for self-care following the application of Mental Health First Aid in a crisis or non-crisis situation.

**Any fees collected will cover administrative and didactic charges by Mental Health First Aid headquarters**

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS

Core Competencies Covered - According to the Virginia Certification Board

A. Service Coordination and System Navigation

B. Advocacy, Outreach, and Engagement

C. Health Promotion and Prevention

***In order to receive full credit, you must attend the entire event/session/course***