MHFA Supporting Older Adults
Presenter(s)
MHFA Canada - PSSM Canada
The Mental Health Commission of Canada reports that one in every five Canadians experiences a mental health or substance use problem within a given year. These problems can affect older adults in a unique way. While people often know a lot about physical illness, most people have less knowledge about mental health or substance use problems. This lack of underÂstanding often leads to fear and negative attitudes towards those living with these problems. It prevents people from seeking help for themselves and from providing appropriate support to people around them.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help provided to a person who may be experiencing a crisis or a decline in their mental well-being. The course is designed for people who have frequent contact with older adults, for example, family members, friends, public and private caregivers, community health workers, and volunteers.