Mental Health First Aid was first established in Australia in 2001. It has since expanded to over 20 countries and was first introduced in Canada in 2006 via the Alberta Mental Health Board.
The mission of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Canada is to “make meaningful contributions to the wellness of Canadians through world-class mental health courses.”
Mental Health First Aid is the help provided to a person developing a mental health problem, experiencing the worsening of an existing mental health problem or in a mental health crisis. Just like physical first aid is provided until medical treatment can be obtained, MHFA is given until appropriate support is found or until the crisis is resolved.
Persons trained in MHFA are better able to;
Recognize a change in behaviour
Respond with confident conversation
Guide to appropriate resources and support
Mental Health First Aid for Veterans is offered free through the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) and Veterans Affairs Canada.
