Mental Health First Aid Workshop

Service Description

Mental Health First Aid Workshop (Basic Course) Overview: In this 2-day, 12-hour workshop, participants gain crucial skills to recognize and address mental health issues. Covering common disorders like substance-related, mood, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders, as well as psychotic disorders, the course focuses on adults (18 years and above). Key Components: Session One: Mental Health and Mental Health Problems Introduction to Mental Health First Aid Understanding common mental health problems Actions of mental health first aid (ALGEE) Addressing stigma and discrimination Substance-related disorders and crisis first aid for overdose Session Two: Mood Disorders Exploring mood disorders Types, signs, and symptoms Substance use and mood disorders Suicide awareness and crisis first aid for suicidal behavior Session Three: Anxiety and Trauma Related Disorders Understanding anxiety and trauma-related disorders Types, signs, and symptoms Substance use and anxiety disorders Crisis first aid for panic attacks and acute stress reactions Session Four: Psychotic Disorders Overview of psychotic disorders Types, signs, and symptoms Substance use and psychotic disorders Crisis first aid for psychotic episodes Course Model: Participants learn the ALGEE framework: Assess the risk of suicide and/or harm Listen non-judgmentally Give reassurance Encourage professional support Encourage other supports Key Outcomes: International evaluations show increased awareness of mental health issues, reduced stigma, improved confidence in interacting with those in crisis, and enhanced practical help provided. Method of Delivery: Utilizing lecture, discussion, video, and case studies, participants receive a certificate from the Mental Health Commission of Canada upon completion.