Learn about mental health first aid

Did you know that more than 43 million adults in our country struggled with mental illness in the past year? Half of us will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition at some point in our lives. Visit the CDC’s Mental Health website to learn more.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a way to put upstream, public health prevention strategies for behavioral health in action. Hundreds of local public health agencies, including Jefferson County Public Health, community mental health centers, primary care practices, hospitals, schools, law enforcement agencies and more are now using this evidence-based training to help address behavioral health needs in their communities. The program's popularity is impressive, but its supporters see the growth so far as just the beginning. So, if you're not one of the 25,000 certified Mental Health First Aiders in Colorado, what exactly is it all about?

The Mental Health First Aid Colorado (MHFACO) team has put together a short, introductory video explaining why it is important and how to get involved. Click here to watch the video and learn how you can become a lifeline for yourself, a colleague, client, friend or family member in need of support. You can also learn more at www.mhfaco.org.
More Resources:

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, there are people who want to help 24/7 at:

• The National Suicide Hotline: 1-800-283-TALK (8255)

• Colorado Crisis Services: 1-844-493-TALK (8255)

• Find a Walk-In Crisis Center in Colorado near you at: http://coloradocrisisservices.org
  
• Suicide Prevention from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment