Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) equips you with practical skills to support someone facing mental health or substance use challenges. At the heart of the program is the MHFA Action Plan (ALGEE), a simple, effective framework you’ll learn to apply in real-world situations.
During the course, you’ll dive deep into the material, connect concepts to everyday experiences, and participate in interactive discussions and exercises. These activities keep you engaged and give you opportunities to practice your new skills in a safe, supportive environment.
MHFA helps remove the fear and uncertainty around talking about mental health. You’ll learn how to recognize signs of distress and respond confidently and compassionately—making a real difference when it matters most.
Be prepared to support those around you by getting certified in Mental Health First Aid.
For groups of five or more interested in scheduling Mental Health First Aid training, please contact Maryann at maryann.fusco@uconn.edu.
Youth Mental Health First Aid Overview
Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.
Upon successful completion of the course, an online certificate will be e-mailed to you with congratulations. Certification is good for 3 years.
$35 for blended virtual class
$45 for in-person
Upcoming Courses
Youth Mental Health First Aid
Virtual Course: 2 day course- must attend both days
January 13th 6:30pm-9pm and January 20th 6:30pm-9pm
Adult Mental Health First Aid
For more information contact maryann.fusco@uconn.edu
Register for an upcoming course at s.uconn.edu/reg1strat1on_mhfa
Adult Mental Health First Aid Overview
Mental Health First Aid for Adults teaches people how to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges in adults ages 18 and older, how to offer and provide initial help, and how to guide a person toward appropriate care if necessary. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, psychosis, and addictions.
Upon successful completion of the course, an online certificate will be e-mailed to you with congratulations. Certification is good for 3 years.
$35 for blended virtual class
$45 for in-person
Community-Specific Courses Overview
Adult Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education
The Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education Community-specific Course builds upon the effectiveness of the standard Mental Health First Aid curriculum by focusing on Higher Education settings. Participants do not need to also take the standard course, as this course aligns with the Adult Standard Mental Health First Aid course. This training is held in-person only.
Upon successful completion of the course, an online certificate will be e-mailed to you with congratulations. Certification is good for 3 years.
$45 for in-person
Adult Mental Health First Aid for Rural Communities
The Mental Health First Aid for Rural Communities Community-specific Course builds upon the effectiveness of the standard Mental Health First Aid curriculum by focusing on the unique experiences and needs of populations in Rural Communities. Participants do not need to also take the standard course, as this course aligns with the Adult Standard Mental Health First Aid course. This training is held in-person only.
Upon successful completion of the course, an online certificate will be e-mailed to you with congratulations. Certification is good for 3 years.
$45 for in-person
Additional Resources
Self-Care
SAMHSA resource
Mental Health First Aid Template
Companion Resource Guide
Connecticut 2025 with Appendix: Resources from the National Council for Mental Wellness
Maryann Fusco-Rollins, an assistant extension educator with UConn Extension in Tolland County, brings this transformative training to adults through the UConn 4-H program. Supported by the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) Strategic Vision Implementation grant, her mission is both professional and deeply personal.