Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) trains the county workforce to aid in early recognition of mental health challenges.

With proven outcomes, it creates a culture of care and mitigates the impacts of mental health illness on the work environment. According to the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, depression and anxiety challenges cost U.S. employers $44 billion annually, with the World Health Organization calculating the global impact at $1 trillion per year in lost workplace productivity.

In partnership with the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, NACo offers MHFA to support the mental wellbeing of county employees and elected officials, de-stigmatize mental health and substance use challenge, and provide more equitable access to quality services.

Program Benefits:

• Tackle Workplace Stigma: Training leads to mutual education & understanding among colleagues.
• Reinforce Support: Increase awareness of resources & how to access available services.
• Increase Productivity: Early detection & treatment reduces lost days & increases employee performance.
• Evidence-Based: MFHA at Work trainings are supported by empirical data to improve employee wellness.

MHFA offers counties a practical way to support employee wellbeing and foster a more resilient workforce. By training staff to recognize and respond to early signs of mental health challenges, counties can reduce stigma, improve access to care, and minimize workplace disruptions. Backed by evidence and offered through NACo in partnership with the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, MHFA equips local governments with the tools to create healthier, more supportive environments while also addressing the significant costs of untreated mental health issues.

Learn More: Mental Health First Aid – NACo EDGE