Building Confidence to Help
EQUIP
Mental Health First Aid Skills that save lives
We equip everyday people with the knowledge and skills to recognize the signs of mental health and substance use challenges—and respond with confidence and care.
WHY IT MATTERS Education and Training Matter
Most of us would know how to respond if we saw someone having a heart attack—we’d start CPR or, at the very least, call 911. Yet many of us feel uncertain about what to do if someone is having a panic attack, struggling emotionally, or showing signs of a mental health or substance use challenge.
Mental Health First Aid helps close that gap.
Through education and practical guidance, MHFA reduces fear and hesitation by building understanding and providing a clear, compassionate action plan. Participants learn how to recognize warning signs, start supportive conversations, and respond safely and responsibly until appropriate professional help is available.
Mental Health First Aid empowers everyday women to show up with knowledge, compassion, and confidence when it matters most.
Education And Training
What Is Mental Health First Aid?
Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based, early-intervention course that teaches participants how to recognize and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges.
During the course, participants learn:
Mental Health First Aid does not replace professional care. It equips everyday people with practical skills to offer initial support and help connect someone to appropriate resources.
No prior mental health experience or clinical background is required.
Who Should Take This Course?
Adult Mental Health First Aid is designed for adults who want to feel more prepared to support other adults—and themselves.
STOPS especially encourages women supporting loved ones and communities to participate, while the training is open to anyone who wants practical skills to help.
This course is especially valuable for people who:
No prior mental health experience or clinical background is required—just a willingness to learn and a heart for helping others.
If you’ve ever wished you knew how to help, this course is for you.
What Participants Receive
Participants who complete the Mental Health First Aid course receive a Mental Health First Aid certification, valid for three years, along with practical skills they can carry into their homes, workplaces, and communities.
More than a credential, the training builds confidence to recognize when someone may be struggling, offer initial support, and help connect them with appropriate resources.
For STOPS, it is another step toward becoming a Mental Health Champion—prepared to respond with knowledge, compassion, and confidence.
A Gentle Reassurance
You don’t need all the right words. Sometimes making a difference begins simply by being present—by noticing, listening, and helping someone find the support they need.
Mental Health First Aid helps you feel more prepared for those moments. You may not have all the answers, but you can be a calm, compassionate first step toward help and hope.
How Do I Get Trained?
Mental Health First Aid training equips women with the knowledge and skills needed to support someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use challenge, or who may be experiencing a crisis.
Through this course, participants learn how to:
STOPS offers Mental Health First Aid training to help everyday people recognize when someone may be struggling, offer initial support, and connect them with appropriate resources.
To learn about upcoming STOPS training opportunities, contact us or explore our Events page. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you get started.
Taking the first step can make a lasting difference.
Learn How To Apply the Action Plan
Assess for risk of suicide or harm
Listen nonjudgmentally
Give reassurance and information
Encourage appropriate professional help
Encourage self-help and other support strategies
Knowing what to do can make all the difference. Mental Health First Aid equips you to recognize the signs, respond with compassion, and help someone take the next step toward support.
