Mental Health First Aid

Most of us know how to assist in a physical emergency, whether through CPR or calling 9-1-1. However, many do not know how to respond to a mental health emergency. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) can teach you how to understand, identify and respond to mental health and substance use emergencies or crises. 

What MHFA Covers 

• Common signs and symptoms of mental illness, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) 
• Common signs and symptoms of substance use 
• How to interact with an individual in crisis 
• How to connect the person with help 
  
  

ALGEE Plan

MHFA follows the five parts of the ALGEE plan: 

• Assess for risk of suicide or harm 
• Listen non-judgmentally 
• Give reassurance and information 
• Encourage appropriate professional help 
• Encourage self-help and other support strategies

For more information, please contact Courtney Martin at cmartin2@arlingtonva.us or visit the Mental Health First Aid website.