Mental Health First Aid - EMS Certification

Issued by Merrimack College

Merrimack College Mental Health First Aid for Fire and EMS teaches participants how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. This 8-hour training teaches methods and techniques to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care. This course specifically focuses on the unique experiences and needs of firefighters and EMS personnel.

Type Certification
Level Foundational
Time Hours
Cost Paid

Additional Details

Skills

Earning Criteria

Participants engage in discussion around the first responder culture, stigmas, and their relevance to the topic of mental health. Participants gain a deep understanding of mental health diseases, drug and substance abuse to enhance emergency crisis response.
Participants develop and enhance outreach tactics to respond to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Participants learn to adapt and enhance their interpersonal communication skills.
Participants engage in dialogue on the specific risk factors faced by many first responders and their families. Participants discover common mental health resources for first responders, their families, and those who support them.
Participants learn how to apply the ALGEE Action Plan, which teaches techniques to assess interactions for risk of suicide or harm, listen non-judgmentally, give reassurance and information, encourage appropriate professional help, and encourage other support and self-help strategies.

Standards

Research & Evidence Base

Mental Health First Aid is an international training program proven to be effective. Studies also show that the program reduces the social distance created by negative attitudes and perceptions of individuals with mental illnesses.