Registration for free mental first aid classes open

Reagan Netherland
·1 min read

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has opened registration for its 2024 mental health first aid (MHFA) certification courses, offered at no cost to participants.

Through the MHFA certification program, participants are equipped to identify signs of anxiety, depression, addiction, or other behavioral health issues in their workplace, family, or community, according to a news release. They also learn how to engage in conversations and guide individuals toward necessary care if required.

Participants seeking certification will complete two hours of online pre-work, followed by the six-hour, in-person class.

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“These Mental Health First Aid classes help bridge a vital gap between Arkansans who are experiencing a mental health challenge and connecting them with behavioral health services,” Arkansas Blue Cross President and CEO Curtis Barnett said. “Nearly all of us know someone personally who has been affected, and observance skills learned in this training could literally help change and save lives.”

Since the launch of Arkansas Blue Cross’ community outreach program in 2023, more than 1,000 Arkansans have obtained their MHFA certifications from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.

Classes will be held from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the ArkansasBlue Welcome Centers on the following dates:

  • July 13 – Little Rock, 416 S. University Ave., Ste. 110

  • July 27 – Fayetteville, 3013 N. College Ave.

  • August 9 – Pine Bluff, 509 Mallard Loop

  • August 24 – Rogers, 4602 W. Walnut St.

More classes will be added at a later date.

For more information, please visit arkansasbluecross.com/firstaid.

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