Free mental health first aid certification classes

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield is once again offering free mental health first aid (MHFA) certification courses throughout the state.

This initiative, part of Arkansas Blue Cross’ community outreach since 2023, has already certified over 1,000 people in Arkansas through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.

Research shows that one in five Americans lives with a mental illness, and nearly half will struggle with mental health at some point in their lives. In the MHFA certification program, you can learn to recognize if someone is experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction or other behavioral health challenges and how to initiate a conversation and direct the person to care if needed.

“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,” said Arkansas Blue Cross President and CEO Curtis Barnett. “Nearly all of us know someone personally who has been affected, and observance skills learned in this training could literally help change their lives.”

Participants seeking certification will complete two hours of online pre-work followed by the six-hour, in-person class. Classes are typically held 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at ArkansasBlue Welcome Centers.

To find a date and location that works for you and reserve your spot, complete the free online registration at arkansasbluecross.com/firstaid.

Founded in 1948, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, is the largest health insurer in Arkansas. Arkansas Blue Cross and its affiliates have more than 3,200 employees. The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is comprised of 36 independent, community-based and locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans that collectively provide healthcare coverage for nearly 106 million members — one in three Americans.