MHFA for the Deaf Community
Build the Skills to Support Mental Wellness in the Deaf Community
What is Mental Health First Aid for the Deaf Community?
Mental Health First Aid for the Deaf Community is a specialized training program designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to recognize and respond to mental health challenges and crises within Deaf communities.
AN INNOVATIVE PROGRAM
Built for the Deaf community
Mental Health First Aid for the Deaf Community combines recognized MHFA principles with Deaf culture, Deaf lived experiences, accessibility considerations, and Deaf-specific mental health knowledge.
Participants learn how to provide initial support during a decline in mental well-being, a mental health challenge, or a substance use crisis until appropriate professional help is available.
Developed with and for Deaf communities
Opening Minds developed the course in collaboration with Canadian Hearing Services (CHS).
The program supports culturally informed, accessible learning and practical application.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
This program is for you if you are:
Deaf community members
Family members and caregivers
Service providers
Educators
Community leaders
Health and social service professionals
Anyone supporting mental wellness in Deaf communities
No previous mental health training is required.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Gain practical skills for real-life situations
Focus on the actions you need most: recognize concerns, use ALGES, respond to crises, communicate accessibly, and connect people with support.
- Recognize signs and symptoms of common mental health concerns
- Learn the ALGES action plan
- Identify indicators of substance use challenges
- Respond to developing mental health problems
- Provide support during a mental health or substance use crisis
- Communicate in culturally appropriate and accessible ways
- Connect people with professional and community resources
- Apply MHFA strategies within Deaf community contexts
Course Format
The program follows the Mental Health First Aid model and combines mandatory self-directed pre-course learning with instructor-led live virtual training.
Pre-Course Learning
Required self-directed online learning:
• Approximately 3 to 4 hours
• Completed at your own pace
• Access information is provided after registration and payment
• A unique access code is emailed to participants
Live Virtual Training
Two instructor-led virtual sessions:
• Two full days of interactive learning
• Approximately 5 to 6 hours per session
• Maximum of 15 participants per class to support engagement and discussion
LANGUAGE & ACCESSIBILITY
Learn in ASL or English
Choose the language that works best for you. The course is available in American Sign Language (ASL) and English.
Classes are facilitated by qualified Deaf and hearing instructors.
About Mental Health First Aid for the Deaf Community
Experienced, qualified facilitators
Classes are facilitated by qualified Deaf and hearing instructors to support an accessible and inclusive learning experience.
All instructors have completed intensive instructor certification and facilitation training through Opening Minds.
Facilitators bring expertise in:
- Mental health education
- Crisis response
- Deaf culture and community engagement
- Accessible communication practices
Participants benefit from the unique perspectives and lived experiences of both Deaf and hearing facilitators.
READY TO SIGN UP?
Register through Canadian Hearing Services
To sign up for Mental Health First Aid for the Deaf Community, visit Canadian Hearing Services.
Canadian Hearing Services
View course details and registration information on the Canadian Hearing Services website.