Program Overview

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Program

The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program is an initiative by the University of Bremen to promote mental health and well-being among its employees and students. The program aims to provide a supportive environment and equip individuals with the necessary skills to address mental health issues.

Program Overview

The MHFA program is based on a global initiative that has already trained over four million people worldwide. The program focuses on providing first aid for mental health issues, similar to traditional first aid for physical health. The goal is to make mental health first aid as commonplace as physical first aid.

Course Structure

The MHFA course is a 12-hour training program that covers various aspects of mental health, including:

• Theoretical knowledge about mental health
• Practical skills to provide first aid for mental health issues
• Strategies to promote mental well-being and prevent mental health problems

The course is designed to be interactive, with a mix of lectures, group discussions, and practical exercises.

Eligibility and Registration

The MHFA course is open to all employees of the University of Bremen. However, priority is given to employees with advisory or teaching functions, as they have more frequent contact with students and colleagues. To register for the course, interested employees can send an email to the program coordinator with a brief explanation of their motivation and role within the university.

Course Schedule

The next MHFA course is scheduled to take place on November 27, 2025 (Part 1) and December 11, 2025 (Part 2), from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Due to high demand, registration is currently closed.

Program Benefits

The MHFA program offers several benefits, including:

• Improved knowledge and understanding of mental health issues
• Enhanced skills to provide first aid for mental health problems
• Increased confidence in addressing mental health issues
• A supportive network of trained mental health first aiders

Additional Resources

The University of Bremen offers various resources to support mental health and well-being, including:

• Online tools and tests to assess stress levels and mental well-being
• Workshops and training programs on stress management, motivation, and mental health
• Counseling services and support groups for employees and students
• A comprehensive website with information and resources on mental health and well-being

Strategic Partnerships

The MHFA program is supported by the Techniker Krankenkasse, a German health insurance company. The program is also part of a broader initiative to promote mental health and well-being in the workplace, in collaboration with other organizations and institutions.