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MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Statistics show that 75% of mental illnesses develop before age 25
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College and university students have unique stress and risk factors related to the demands of school; balancing academic, social, and employment responsibilities while being independent and away from family, friends, and other supports — often for the first time.

Today, 40% of young adults age 18-24 are enrolled in a two or four year educational institution. Statistics show that 75% of mental illnesses develop before age 25, making colleges ideal locations for early identification. However, the number one reason students say they do not use mental health resources is lack of knowledge that those resources even exist.

 

Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education is designed with colleges’ and universities’ unique culture and resources in mind. Training students, faculty and others in higher education settings how to recognize the symptoms of emerging mental illnesses or to assist young adults in a mental health crisis can help lessen the severity and impact of mental illnesses.

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COURSE DETAILS

  • A discussion of campus culture and its relevance to the topic of mental health
  • A discussion of the specific stress and risk factors faced by the higher education population
  • Applying the ALGEE action plan in a number of scenarios designed specifically for faculty, administration and students
  • A review of the mental health resources available on campus and through partnerships in the community

WHY MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID IN HIGHER EDUCATION?

Mental Health First Aid helps people know that mental illnesses and addictions are real, common and treatable and that it’s OK to seek help. Research demonstrates this program’s effectiveness in improving knowledge of mental illnesses and substance use, removing fear and misunderstanding and enabling those trained to offer concrete assistance.

Individuals trained in Mental Health First Aid can help:

Raise awareness and encourage understanding of the ways in which one’s cultural background can impact the discrimination associated with mental illness


Reach out to those who suffer in silence, reluctant to seek help


Let students know that support is available on campus and in the community


Provide information on self-help strategies and campus and community resources


Make mental health care and treatment accessible to thousands in need

The program is listed in SAMHSA’s National Registry of Evidenced Based Programs and Practices. Mental Health First Aid is a low-cost, high-impact program that generates tremendous community awareness and support.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THE COURSE?

Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education is ideal for anyone who regularly interacts with students, both on and off campus, including:

  • Students

  • Faculty

  • Resident Advisors

  • Campus Clergy

  • Campus law enforcement

  • Academic Advisors

  • Counselors

  • ​Financial aid employees

  • Coaches and athletic personnel

  • Administrators

  • Event Staff

  • ​Librarians

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