Mental Health First Aid: Pharmacy

Mental Health First Aid: Pharmacy is organized by American Pharmacists Association (APhA).

Initial release date: September 1, 2022
Expiration date: September 1, 2025 - No credit can be earned after this date

Course Description:
Introduction to Mental Health First Aid: Pharmacy will improve the understanding of the presentation and pervasiveness of mental illness, challenge myths and misconceptions regarding individuals who have a mental illness and share effectively engagement strategies. It will improve the general understanding of the spectrum of interventions and support for individuals with mental illness in our communities and improve the comfort and confidence that a pharmacist and pharmacy technician may have in communicating effectively while being empathetic to their unique needs.

Modules and Learning Objectives
At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

Module 1: Introduction to Mental Health First Aid (30 Minutes)

• Describe “Introduction to Mental Health First Aid: Pharmacy", "Mental Health First Aid,” and the role of a Mental Health First Aider
• Discuss the prevalence and impact of mental health disorders in the United States
• Demonstrate the "Mental Health First Aid Action Plan" and how it fits within the array of interventions available to address mental health problems

Module 2: Anxiety and Panic Attack (45 Minutes)

• Identify the signs and symptoms of anxiety and panic attack
• Demonstrate the "Mental Health First Aid Action Plan" for people who may be experiencing anxiety or panic attack and may be in crisis

Module 3: Depression and Suicide Prevention (60 Minutes)

• Identify the signs, symptoms, and warning signs of depression and suicidal ideation
• Demonstrate the "Mental Health First Aid Action Plan" for someone who may be experiencing depressive symptoms and may be in crisis, such as suicidal thoughts

Module 4: Psychosis (45 Minutes)

• Define psychosis Describe the types of disorders in which psychosis may occur Identify symptoms of schizophrenia
• Demonstrate the "Mental Health First Aid Action Plan" for people who may be exhibiting symptoms of psychosis or may be in a related crisis

Module 5: Substance Use Disorders (60 Minutes)

• Identify risk factors and warning signs of substance use disorder
• Demonstrate the "Mental Health First Aid Action Plan" for people who may be exhibiting symptoms of a substance use disorder or a related crisis