Become A Mental Health First Aider - A Lifesaving Skill For Everyone

On Wednesday, June 11th, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Goodman Jewish Family Services is offering a free, one-day Adult Mental Health First Aid course to anyone in the community who wants to learn how to identify, understand, and respond to these critical situations. This hands-on training empowers participants with the tools to make a real difference—and even save lives.

What Is Mental Health First Aid?

Just like CPR teaches you how to respond to a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) teaches you how to support someone experiencing a Mental Health or Substance Use crisis. The training covers everything from recognizing warning signs to providing initial help and guiding the individual toward appropriate support.

Participants receive a three-year national certification as a Mental Health First Aider, equipping them to step in during pivotal moments of need.

Why This Training Matters

The numbers are staggering: nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults lives with a Mental Illness and over 20 million Americans struggle with Substance Use. Despite these figures, stigma and misunderstanding persist, often keeping people from seeking help.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, friend, manager, or simply a compassionate neighbor, this training is for you. It equips you to notice when someone is in distress and act responsibly without judgment or fear.

What You’ll Learn

The course is comprehensive, practical and built around real-life scenarios. Here’s what you can expect:

• Common signs and symptoms of Mental Illness, including Anxiety, Depression and Schizophrenia.

• Warning signs of Substance Use Disorders, such as changes in behavior, mood, or appearance.

• How to approach and assist someone in crisis, including those who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or panic attacks.

• How to connect individuals with appropriate resources, from professional help to peer support networks.

• Expanded content on trauma, addiction and the importance of self-care for both those giving and receiving help.

The backbone of the training is the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan**, also known as ALGEE:

1. Assess for risk of Suicide or harm

2. Listen non-judgmentally

3. Give reassurance and information

4. Encourage appropriate professional help

5. Encourage self-help and other support strategies

ALGEE is not just an acronym—it’s a powerful framework that provides clear steps during emotionally charged situations. By participating in MHFA training, you become part of a growing network of informed and compassionate individuals dedicated to building a more supportive community.

A Community Effort

This upcoming session is more than just a course—it’s a community-building opportunity. You’ll connect with fellow residents who care about Mental Wellness and want to contribute positively to the lives of others.

Goodman Jewish Family Services is proud to offer this training free of charge** as part of their commitment to improving Mental Health Awareness and accessibility in the region. The June 11th training will be held in person from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is open to all adults. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.

To sign up, visit: https://bit.lv/3YhWtiD

For questions or more information, email: MHFA@ifsbroward.org

Mental Health is just as vital as Physical Health—and just like we’re taught to bandage a wound or perform CPR, we must also learn how to support those facing invisible injuries. Mental Health First Aid provides the education, language and confidence to act with empathy and effectiveness.

Take the first step. Attend the training. Be the one who knows what to do when it matters most.