March 21, 2024- Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training teaches the initial help given to a person showing signs of a mental health crisis. City of Alexandria residents and employees can complete the two-session eight-hour course virtually to earn a MHFA certification. Sessions will be held on April 29 and April 30 (must attend both days), May 20, June 20, July 29, August 21 and August 22 (must attend both days).

The course teaches risk factors, warning signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use disorders; the effects of the conditions and an overview of treatments; and a five-step action plan for helping someone with symptoms.

This training does not prepare someone to diagnose or provide treatment. It is designed to help paraprofessionals and laypersons provide support until an individual is linked to professional resources. MHFA is not recommended for licensed mental health providers.

Registration is open until filled.  Visit alexandriava.gov/DCHS to register. To learn more about MHFA, visit mentalhealthfirstaid.org.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact maurice.tomdio@alexandriava.gov or call 571.384.5244, Virginia Relay 711.