1. Extension & Outreach
  2. Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid

sunrise over a lake

Sunrise on a cloudy day. (photo credit Fusco-Rollins, M.J.)

For groups of five or more interested in scheduling Mental Health First Aid training, please contact Maryann at maryann.fusco@uconn.edu.

Training Dates

Youth Mental Health First Aid
Live Webinars: Registration: closed
When:
February 24, 2025 (12:30 PM - 4:00 PM) and January 25, 2025 (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) - two days, 3 1/2 hr. each day

Registration fee:
Registration for the February 24th and 25th dates paid for by a grant from UConn CAHNR Strategic Vision Implementation Committees (SVIC)

    Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid:
    Be prepared to support those around you by getting certified in Mental Health First Aid. Mental Health First Aid teaches the skills needed to recognize and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges, as well as how to provide someone with initial support until they are connected with appropriate professional help. In the course, you learn risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies to help someone in both crisis and noncrisis situations, and where to turn for help.

    Youth Mental Health First Aid

    Youth Mental Health First Aid:

    Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.

    Upon successful completion of the course, an online certificate will be e-mailed to you with congratulations. Certification is good for 3 years.

    $35 for blended virtual class

    $45 for in-person

    Adult Mental Health First Aid

    Adult Mental Health First Aid:

    Mental Health First Aid for Adults teaches people how to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges in adults ages 18 and older, how to offer and provide initial help, and how to guide a person toward appropriate care if necessary. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, psychosis, and addictions. 

    Upon successful completion of the course, an online certificate will be e-mailed to you with congratulations. Certification is good for 3 years.

    $35 for blended virtual class

    $45 for in-person

    Self-Care Template

    Self-Care Template_R_fillable

     

    Community-specific Courses

    Adult Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education

    Adult Mental Health First Aid:

    The Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education Community-specific Course builds upon the effectiveness of the standard Mental Health First Aid curriculum by focusing on Higher Education settings. Participants do not need to also take the standard course, as this course aligns with the Adult Standard Mental Health First Aid course. This training is held in-person only.

    Upon successful completion of the course, an online certificate will be e-mailed to you with congratulations. Certification is good for 3 years.

    $45 for in-person

    Adult Mental Health First Aid for Rural Communities

    Adult Mental Health First Aid:

    The Mental Health First Aid for Rural Communities Community-specific Course builds upon the effectiveness of the standard Mental Health First Aid curriculum by focusing on the unique experiences and needs of populations in Rural Communities. Participants do not need to also take the standard course, as this course aligns with the Adult Standard Mental Health First Aid course. This training is held in-person only. 

    Upon successful completion of the course, an online certificate will be e-mailed to you with congratulations. Certification is good for 3 years.

    $45 for in-person

    Instructor

    Maryann Fusco-Rollins
    Extension Educator 4-H and Youth Development

    Mental health and wellness conversations and outreach to individuals and communities are increasingly vital parts of positive youth development.  Mental Health First Aid teaches common language and tools to help others prevail over challenges and become their best selves.

    Maryann Fusco-Rollins, an assistant extension educator with UConn Extension in Tolland County, brings this transformative training to adults through the UConn 4-H program. Supported by the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) Strategic Vision Implementation grant, her mission is both professional and deeply personal.

    UConn Extension’s Mental Health First Aid Training Offers Hope and Support – UConn Today