Mental Health First Aid May 2026 Training

Mental Health First Aid teaches participants to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge.

BECOME A MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AIDER

Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance-use issues. Just as CPR helps you assist an individual having a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid helps you assist someone experiencing a mental health or substance use-related crisis. Mental Health First Aid teaches about recovery and resiliency – the belief that individuals experiencing these challenges can and do get better. This course is for anyone who wants to help others and have a positive impact on mental health in our community, regardless of background or degree.

WHAT’S INVOLVED

• This is a one-day, interactive and fast-paced training course presented via Zoom. The course is 5.5 hours, including breaks.

• You will be required to complete some course pre-work (approximately two hours) prior to the training session. Pre-work should be completed at least 3 business days prior to training day.

• Once you have successfully completed the training, you will be a certified Mental Health First Aider. You will then be in our network of First Aiders and will receive occasional resources and information relating to mental health in our area and nationally.

• There is no cost to participate in this program, only your commitment. Training is underwritten by Texas Health Community Hope, Texas Health’s unique approach to promoting healthier futures through a broad range of impactful initiatives, investments, and collaborations.

THE MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID & “ALGEE”

Mental Health First Aid is designed to take the fear and hesitation out of starting conversations about mental health and substance use problems. The training is not designed to be a substitute for professional intervention and treatment, but a way to support to someone in crisis. Participants learn about potential risk factors and warning signs, strategies for supporting someone in both crisis and non-crisis situations, and where to turn for help using the 5-step “ALGEE” action plan:

Assess for risk of suicide or harm

Listen nonjudgmentally

Give reassurance and information

Encourage appropriate professional help

Encourage self-help and other support strategies

REGISTRATION

Registration closes on Wednesday, May 19 or when class is filled. Approximately 7-14 business days prior to the training date, you will be contacted by Ruby Brown-Herring at ruby@rbhwellness.com. You are not confirmed for training until you receive notification from Ruby Brown-Herring. If you have registered and do not receive notification, contact Ruby Brown-Herring at ruby@rbhwellness.com.

If you are interested in Mental Health First Aid group training for employees or an organization, please email stephaniejackson@texashealth.org.