Mental Health First Aid Training Offered Virtually This October

PORTAGE, Wis. - The Aspirus Community Health Improvement Department is offering Mental Health First Aid Training this October, providing community members with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges.

The virtual training will be held via Zoom on October 28 and 29, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Participants must attend both sessions and complete two hours of online pre-work before the first class.

Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based course that teaches participants how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults. The training provides practical tools to support someone who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis and helps connect individuals with appropriate resources.

Participants will learn how to apply the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan, which includes assessing for risk of suicide or harm, listening nonjudgmentally, providing reassurance and information, encouraging appropriate professional help, and encouraging self-help and other support strategies.

"Mental health challenges affect individuals, families and communities every day," said Kari Due, Community Health Specialist at Aspirus. "This training gives people practical tools and confidence to recognize when someone may be struggling, start a supportive conversation and connect them with resources that can help."

To help expand access to the training, the Aspirus Community Health Improvement Department will cover the cost for the first 20 participants who register.

Registration is required. Individuals interested in participating can register by emailing [email protected].

For more information about Mental Health First Aid, visit www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org.

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