As the number of Americans facing a mental health condition continues to grow every day, we want to help you continue to #BeTheDifference for those around you. So, we asked our Mental Health First Aid Instructor community what advice they have for you as you head into the new year.

Here are a few tips from our dedicated and passionate Instructors.

1. “Review the information from your training sessions and encourage others in your workplace to take the course. Think about always Being the Difference. 😊” – Gayle Colucci
2. “As a First Aider, you can have tremendous influence by just following the ‘L’ and ‘G’ with everyone you encounter. Listening nonjudgmentally and giving reassurance is a great example of empathy and fuels connections.” – Janet Watkins
3. “Help spread the word of ALGEE.” – Jaime Lederer
4. “Practice self-care regularly. If you are taking care of yourself, you’ll be better able to help others who are in need.” – Beth Hemmer
5. “Every interaction is a possible moment to practice MHFA. Give the gift of ALGEE.” – Jill Boultinghouse
6. “You cannot control others, just your reaction to them. Keep kindness in your heart and ‘Q-TIP’ their comments – quit taking it personally. It may be that they choose to vent to you, not about you.” – Marian Chiara

As Mental Health First Aiders, you are making a difference for so many people in your community. With the knowledge and skills you’ve learned in MHFA, you can recognize and respond to people experiencing mental health or substance use crises and get them to the help they need.

If you’re already a First Aider and want to take the next step, we also encourage you to become a MHFA Instructor today. This community of more than 15,000 people are on the frontlines of the program and spread the vital message of MHFA in their communities every day. You can continue to #BeTheDifference and build stronger and healthier communities.