Six Reasons to Schedule Mental Health First Aid Training with GetSomeJoy

So you want to bring sustainable wellness practices to your community? Mental Health First Aid is a powerful tool to help make that happen.

Here are six reasons to schedule a Mental Health First Aid training or series with GetSomeJoy, a creative wellness agency that supports communities with joy-infused trainings, resources, and experiences. Our other programs include the Literary Therapy Writing Program and Grief Support Program.

1. So your team members and community members feel equipped to support someone navigating a mental health or substance use challenge/crisis.

Improving community wellness depends on more of us being able to recognize and support folks who are experiencing potential crises. At least one in five adults will experience a mental health challenge (diagnosable or not) in any given year. Nearly 20% of high school students report having serious thoughts of suicide.

Mental Health First Aid uses an Action Plan (ALGEE) to train the public to recognize signs and symptoms of a challenge or crisis and navigate potentially intimidating conversations around topics like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, non-suicidal self-harm, psychosis, suicide, and more.

2. To foster a greater sense of mutual responsibility within your community.

A common concern for Mental Health First Aid attendees prior to the course is not being sure they’d know what to do or say when a crisis arises. They report not wanting to “say the wrong thing” or cause further harm.

MHFA takes the fear and hesitation out of starting conversations about mental health and substance use problems. During Mental Health First Aid, participants practice approaching someone they suspect may be having a challenge, determining which approaches are helpful and unhelpful, and affirming the person’s culture. They are challenged to consider how the Action Plan looks or works based on their role, relationship, environment, responsibility, etc.

3. Our courses are facilitated by a National Trainer for Mental Health First Aid.

You’re in good hands. GetSomeJoy’s Mental Health First Aid Program is directed by Alex Hardy, an experienced, passionate facilitator who, in his six years as a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, has also supported communities as an Instructor Mentor, Curriculum Developer, and National Trainer for the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.

As a National Trainer, Alex trains, coaches, and certifies new Mental Health First Aid Instructors to deliver dynamic, engaging, culturally affirming trainings with fidelity. Alex has certified at least 500 new instructors since January 2023, supporting increased access to life-saving interventions and resources throughout the United States.

4. We’re trusted by global brands and community groups alike.

Whether consulting on best practices and safety plans, leading public courses, or facilitating Instructor trainings, GetSomeJoy has supported and brought joy-infused engagement and creativity to local, digital, and nationwide community wellness initiatives. We’ve collaborated with Dow, National Urban League, New York City Department of Education, 1199SEIU Healthcare Workers Union, and dozens of community groups. And we bring snacks.

Alex delivered trainings as part of kate spade new york Foundation’s campaign for arts and media professionals, and offered Adult, Youth, and Spanish courses as a volunteer Instructor for New York City’s Thrive NYC campaign.

5. To help reduce stigma and normalize challenging conversations around mental health and substance use.

Studies have indicated a median time of 10 years between the onset of symptoms and accessing mental health care. Stigma keeps those in need from accessing the care they need, along with cultural influences, financial concerns, and logistical challenges. Mental Health First Aid unpacks and offers guidance for reframing dangerous myths and misconceptions around mental illness and substance use. Participants practice listening non-judgmentally and explore cultural considerations that impact how we give and receive support.

6. Meet your wellness needs with a variety of community specific curricula and delivery options.

GetSomeJoy instructors are certified to deliver multiple Mental Health First Aid programs:

• Mental Health First Aid for Adults (for adults assisting adults)

• Youth Mental Health First Aid (for adults assisting youth/adolescents)

• Mental Health First Aid for Spanish Speaking Communities

• Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education

These trainings can be in-person or blended (an online self-paced introduction + virtual or in-person instructor led session).

Schedule one-time, monthly, or quarterly Mental Health First Aid trainings for new hires, leaders of all levels, clients, VIPs, students, partners, friends and family, and anyone else engaging with people, managing a team, or supporting clients.

Request a Mental Health First Aid training or Learn more about Mental Health First Aid with GetSomeJoy .