Why Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education Matters More Than Ever

Colleges and universities are being asked to do more than ever when it comes to student mental health. Rising levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and substance use are intersecting with academic pressure, workforce shortages, and increased expectations on faculty and staff—many of whom do not see themselves as “mental health professionals,” yet are often the first to notice when something isn’t right.

Awareness alone is no longer enough. Campuses need practical, evidence-based training that builds confidence, clarifies roles, and strengthens pathways to support. That’s where Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education comes in.

What is Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education?

Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education is a nationally recognized, evidence-based training designed specifically for the campus environment. It equips participants with the skills to:

• Recognize early warning signs of mental health and substance use challenges

• Approach and support students (or peers) with empathy and clarity

• Respond to crises appropriately, including suicidal ideation

• Connect individuals to campus and community resources

Importantly, Mental Health First Aid does not train participants to diagnose or counsel. Instead, it focuses on early intervention, supportive conversations, and referral—skills that are appropriate and essential for faculty, staff, and students alike.

Why Higher Education is Prioritizing This Training

Across the country, colleges and universities are recognizing that student mental health is inseparable from academic success, retention, and campus safety. Institutions that have implemented Mental Health First Aid report increased confidence among participants, stronger understanding of when and how to intervene, and greater awareness of existing resources.

As highlighted by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, campuses using Mental Health First Aid are strengthening their mental health ecosystems by empowering the very people students interact with most often.
You can read more about these outcomes here:
https://mentalhealthfirstaid.org/news/universities-prioritizing-student-mental-health/ 

What’s New: Virtual Delivery for Higher Education

One of the most exciting developments is that Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education can now be delivered virtually.

This opens the door for campuses to:

• Reach geographically dispersed faculty, staff, and students

• Reduce scheduling and travel barriers

• Integrate training into existing professional development or academic calendars

• Scale training across departments or colleges more efficiently

The course can be delivered over one or two days, providing flexibility while maintaining the integrity and interactive nature of the training.

Who Benefits from Mental Health First Aid on Campus?

Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education is appropriate for a wide range of campus roles, including:

• Faculty and instructional staff

• Academic advisors and student affairs professionals

• Residence life and campus safety staff

• Graduate assistants and student leaders

• Students interested in peer support and leadership

When multiple campus groups receive shared training, it builds a common language and reinforces the idea that mental health is a shared responsibility, not siloed work.

A Proactive, Upstream Approach to Campus Well-Being

Mental Health First Aid fits best when it’s part of a broader campus mental health strategy—one that emphasizes prevention, early intervention, connection, and clear referral pathways.

Rather than waiting until students are in crisis, this training helps campuses move upstream:

• noticing concerns earlier

• reducing stigma around help-seeking

• supporting faculty and staff in navigating difficult moments

• strengthening trust and connection across campus

It’s not a stand-alone solution—but it is a powerful, practical foundation. CONTACT US to learn more about bringing MHFA-Higher Education to your campus either in-person or virtually.