Mental Health Training for Rural Communities
Bring your close-knit rural community even closer with training that breaks down the barriers to mental health and substance use support.
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How Mental Health First Aid Helps
Millions of rural Americans face mental health challenges. Due to cost, distance, or lack of services, many of them can’t get the care they need. Our evidence-based training helps people in rural communities support each other.
Spot the Signs
7 million rural Americans have a mental health condition, and over 1 million have thoughts of suicide. Learn what to look for and where to turn.
Reduce Stigma
Start conversations that make it OK to ask for help.
Listen With Care
Understand how life in rural areas affects mental health — and respond with empathy.
Be Available
People in rural areas may struggle to find or pay for mental health care. Learn how to support someone until they can get access to professional help.
Know What to Do in a Crisis
Opioid and other drug use is on the rise in rural areas — do you know what to do in an emergency? Feel confident in a crisis with our proven MHFA Action Plan (ALGEE).
Encourage Self-care
Many people in rural areas don’t have a strong support system. Give them tips to care for their own mental wellbeing.
Who Should Take MHFA?
- Health care providers in rural areas
- Community and religious leaders in rural areas
- Caring individuals who live in rural areas
What You Learn
In this full-day training, you’ll learn about mental health in rural areas and how to address it. The training covers anxiety, depression, suicide, addiction and more. You’ll be able to:
- Understand the impact of mental health and substance use challenges in rural populations.
- Know the risks and protective factors for people in rural areas.
- Explain and use the MHFA Action Plan (ALGEE) in scenarios for rural communities.
- Address stigma and explain that recovery is possible.
- Ensure safety and privacy during conversations.
- Encourage self-care and use of national, regional and community mental health resources.
Nikki Karber
President, Speak Out Against Suicide
“Our small community has been greatly affected by suicide. While mental health is a topic that many wish to not discuss, we feel that Mental Health First Aid was essential in bringing the knowledge and awareness our community is striving for. Without it, we would have continued to feel helpless.”
Read more about how Nikki brought MHFA to her rural community.
