UW-Madison Division of Extension is currently offering free Mental Health First Aid training to rural communities as part of the Health and Well-Being Institute’s Wisconsin Rural Opioid and Stimulant Engagement project funded by SAMSA.
Mental Health First Aid is a program that teaches participants how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. The program gives participants the skills and confidence to provide initial support to those who are experiencing a crisis in their community. WiROSE is supporting both Youth and Mental Health First Aid to better equip adults to help those in their community who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or substance use disorder.
Youth Mental Health First Aid
Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people.
Who should be trained?
For Youth Mental Health First Aid:
- Teachers
- School staff
- Coaches
- Camp counselors
- Youth group leaders
- Parents
- People who work with youth
Adult Mental Health First Aid
Adult Mental Health First Aid teaches adults how to recognize signs of a mental health or substance use challenge or crisis. The program teaches people how to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges in adults ages 18 and older, how to offer and provide initial help, and how to guide a person toward appropriate care if necessary.
Who should be trained?
For Adult Mental Health First Aid:
- Employers
- Police officers
- Hospital staff
- First responders
- Faith leaders
- Community members
- Caring individuals
Download the Youth Mental Health First Aid Training Spring 2023 Flyer
Download the Adult Mental Health First Aid Training Spring 2023 Flyer
