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.