Mental Health First Aid
What is Mental Health First Aid?
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the initial support offered to someone developing a mental health problem or experiencing a crisis, providing help until professional treatment is available. Think of it as CPR for mental health: it equips participants to recognize early signs, respond safely, and connect people to appropriate care.
MHFA was created in 2001 in Australia by Betty Kitchner, a nurse specializing in health education, and Anthony Jorn, a mental health literacy professor. The program was later adopted in the United States and has trained millions of people nationwide. The Susquehanna Conference was one of the first to offer MHFA training for pastors, laity, and community members, integrating Christian resources and scripture to guide care in faith-based settings.
“MHFA helped me recognize when someone might be experiencing a mental health crisis, and it gave me confidence to reach out. Sometimes it’s as simple as listening, other times it’s helping them connect with professional help.” - Sandii Peiffer, Susquehanna Conference Communications Specialist
Through the annual Mental Health offering each May, the Susquehanna Conference is able to provide MHFA and Youth MHFA training at no cost to local United Methodist organizations, helping equip churches and communities to respond compassionately and effectively to mental health and substance use challenges.
Why Mental Health First Aid Matters
Many of us know what to do if someone has a heart attack - but few know how to respond is someone is having a panic attack or showing signs of substance use disorder: MHFA:
- Reduces fear and hesitation around mental health conversations
- Provides a practical action plan for safe and responsible intervention
- Equips participants to support friends, family, and community members
- Can save lives
Real-world application in church settings include:
- Responding to panic attacks during worship
- Supporting members expressing suicidal thoughts
- Assisting youth showing signs of depression or social isolation
What the Training Covers
MHFA is a one-day, evidence-based course available online or in-person. Participants learn to:
- Recognize risk factors and warning signs of mental health and substance use disorders
- Apply a five-step action plan for helping someone in crisis or non-crisis situations
- Promote recovery and resiliency, reinforcing that people can and do get better
- Practice through role-playing, scenarios, and interactive activities
Expanded content includes: trauma, substance use, and self-care. No prior medical or mental health experience is required.
Learn More
For details on training options, certification, and upcoming courses, visit the official Mental Health First Aid website: www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org
