The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certification offered through IDEA Training Collaborative is a nationally recognized program designed to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills to support individuals experiencing mental health or substance use challenges.
This two-day training goes beyond theory, combining evidence-based content with real-world, scenario-driven learning. Participants will build confidence in recognizing changes in mental well-being, engaging in supportive conversations, and responding effectively in both crisis and non-crisis situations.
In Canada, 1 in 5 people will experience a mental health challenge in any given year. Despite this, stigma and uncertainty often prevent people from seeking or offering support. This training addresses those gaps by providing clear, actionable tools that can be applied in workplaces, community settings, and everyday life.
What Participants Will Learn
Participants will leave the training with the ability to:
- Recognize signs of declining mental well-being and substance use challenges
- Approach and engage in conversations about mental health with confidence and respect
- Provide initial support using the Mental Health First Aid framework
- Respond to crisis situations in a safe and appropriate manner
- Connect individuals to professional and community supports
- Apply strategies to support their own mental well-being
Training Approach
This is a highly interactive training that includes:
- Facilitated discussions grounded in participant experience
- Realistic scenarios and applied skill-building
- Opportunities for reflection and practice
- Practical tools that can be used immediately in the workplace
Mental Health First Aid Certification
Participants who complete the full training and successfully pass a post-training evaluation will receive a Mental Health First Aid certification, valid for three years.