[Archived] Alexandria Residents Can Complete Mental Health First Aid Training in One Day

For Immediate Release: July 30, 2015

On Saturday, August 8, a single-day session of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training is being offered, allowing participants to earn the three-year certification in one day. MHFA demonstrates the initial help given to a person showing signs of mental illness or a mental health crisis.

The eight-hour course teaches risk factors, warning signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use disorders; the effects of the illnesses and an overview of treatments; and a five-step action plan for helping someone with symptoms. Saturday’s training will be held from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. at 4401 Ford Avenue, 12th floor, Alexandria.

Youth courses are available for adults responding to a youth in crisis.

This training does not prepare someone to diagnose or provide treatment. It is designed to help paraprofessionals and laypersons provide support until an individual is linked to professional resources. MHFA is not recommended for licensed mental health providers. Registration is open until filled. Limit 20 participants per class. Visit alexandriava.gov/DCHS to register for this and other class dates. To learn more about MHFA, visit mentalhealthfirstaid.org.

The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended. To request a reasonable accommodation, email Maurice Tomdio at maurice.tomdio@alexandriava.gov or call 571.384.5244.