One in five Americans has a mental illness or substance use disorder, yet many are reluctant to seek help or don’t know where to turn for care. Bridgeway can help, with compassionate and comprehensive treatment. Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based public education program that can help individuals across the community understand mental health and substance use disorder issues, support timely intervention and save lives. Bridgeway provides Mental Health First Aid for a variety of people of various ages, from youth to adults. We also offer specialized mental health services for veterans, fire/EMS personnel, and more.
Mental Health First Aid USA is operated by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. Bridgeway staff are certified Mental Health First Aid Instructors, through a grant from the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Mental Health.
Even when friends and family recognize a sign or symptom with someone who may be developing a mental illness, they may not know how to intervene or direct the person to proper treatment. All too often, those in need of mental health services do not get help until it is too late.
Mental Health First Aid teaches how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. It introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health concerns, builds understanding, and provides an overview of common treatments.
Adult Mental Health First Aid teaches participants about the signs and symptoms of mental illnesses like anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and addictions. The program offers concrete tools and action plans. Participants are introduced to local mental health resources, national organizations, support groups and online tools for mental health and addiction treatment and support.
Bridgeway’s Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach teachers, parents, peers, and caring citizens how to help a youth or teen who is experiencing a mental health or substance use disorder challenge or is in crisis. The course discusses mental health challenges for youth, reviews adolescent development, and provides guidance for both crisis and non-crisis situations.
Bridgeway’s Teen Mental Health First Aid is for teens in grades 10-12 and teaches a peer-to-peer approach of identifying issues and how to aid a fellow teen. The training is provided over several different sessions and takes place at their area high school. All students of the identified grade level are trained in the material.
To request more information about our Mental Health First Aid education program, please use the form below.
