Sunshine Silver Lining invites you to sign up for a *virtual* Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course in the winter of 2025. These trainings are open to Vermonters and those that serve and support Vermonters and there are 30 spots in each class, grant-funded by Vermont Care Partners.

Before the events in the winter, beginning in Mid-January and Mid- February depending on the course you have signed up for, information will be shared to complete 1-2 hours of pre-work before the live Zoom session. The live Zoom session will include videos, group work, and engagement activities and requires active participation. Upon completing the program, all participants will receive a three-year certification in MHFA.

The purpose of MHFA training is to build an empowered community united around mental health care by educating communities, organizations and individuals in how to address mental health issues effectively. In MHFA classes, people get a better understanding of how to recognize and offer initial aid to someone who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or oncoming crisis.

Attendees explore how to ask if a person is distressed and how to intervene on their behalf. MHFA courses also spell out a clear, five-step action plan to help individuals connect with helpful professionals and peers. The course also covers community resources available, as access to care is a crucial piece of the puzzle.

Youth Mental Health First Aid focuses on Adults helping youth ages 6 to 18 and Adult Mental Health First Aid focuses on Adults helping other Adults. There is also a teen program which is available after a school or youth serving organization invests time in taking yMHFA.