The Diocese of Phoenix is offering free Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. You will learn how to recognize, understand, and respond to signs of mental health or substance use challenges — and how to offer the first level of support.
Mental Health First Aiders are neighbors, parents, coworkers, parish leaders and friends. Anyone who wants to make their community healthier, safer and more supportive can become a First Aider.
Our training removes the fear and hesitation around talking about mental health. We provide tools that empower people to start meaningful conversations, so that more individuals can receive compassionate, stigma‑free support. First Aiders serve as a vital link between those facing a mental health or substance use challenge and the help they need. Mental Health First Aid was created in 2001in Australia by Betty Kitchener, a nurse specializing in health education, and Anthony Jorm, a mental health literacy professor. MHFA USA adapted the program and brought it to the United States in 2008.
More than 91 peer‑reviewed studies have demonstrated that MHFA is effective. People trained in MHFA:
- Show reduced stigma and increased empathy toward individuals experiencing mental health challenges
- Understand the signs, symptoms, and risk factors of mental health and substance use conditions
- Demonstrate greater confidence and willingness to help someone in distress
- Use their skills and knowledge as First Aiders to support their own mental wellbeing
We are pleased to offer this training at no cost. Click the application link and select the date and
time that works for you. In the top right corner of the form, you may choose either English or
Spanish. Classes are offered in both languages.