Mental Health First Aid Training
The National Council for Mental Wellbeing is a leading nonprofit organization that drives policy and social change to promote mental health and substance use recovery. Representing more than 3,000 organizations across the country, the National Council is committed to ensuring equitable access to high-quality mental health and substance use care.
Our Training Approach
1
What MHFA Training Covers
Common signs and symptoms of mental health challenges.
Common signs and symptoms of substance use challenges.
How to interact with a person in crisis.
How to connect a person with help.
Expanded content on trauma, substance use and self-care.
2
Learn how to respond with the Mental Health First Aid ALGEE Action Plan
A ssess for risk of suicide or harm.
L isten nonjudgmentally.
G ive reassurance and information.
E ncourage appropriate professional help.
E ncourage self-help and other support strategies.
3
Ways to Learn
In-person
Learners receive their training during a 7.5-hour, Instructor-led, in-person session.
Blended
Learners complete a 2-hour, self-paced online course and participate in a 4.5- to 5.5-hour, instructor-led training.
This Instructor-led Training can be:
» A video conference.
» An in-person class.
Hear from Real Mental Health First Aiders
"This training opened my eyes. I now feel confident checking in with others and offering real support. Everyone should take this."-MHFA Certified Learner
“Mental Health First Aid is not just a training—it’s a workplace essential. When employers and peers are equipped to recognize early signs of mental health challenges, they create a culture where support comes before crisis.”
FAQs
How is MHFA different from other wellness or mental health trainings we’ve done?
MHFA is an evidence-based certification course that goes beyond awareness—participants learn how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges. It equips employees with a proven action plan and real-time skills to assist colleagues in distress.
Why should we prioritize MHFA in our workplace right now?
With rising rates of stress, burnout, and mental health-related absenteeism, MHFA helps organizations proactively support employee well-being. It strengthens team culture, enhances psychological safety, and demonstrates a clear commitment to mental health—factors that directly impact retention, engagement, and performance.
What kind of return or impact can we expect from this training?
MHFA-trained teams are more confident in offering support, leading to earlier intervention, fewer crises, and improved morale. Research shows that workplaces with mental health training see reductions in stigma, increased help-seeking behavior, and healthier organizational outcomes.