aerial view of Western's campus at night, with golden lights surrounded by dark trees

Interested in mental health training?

This December, The Office of Health Promotion and Resilience is taking the next step towards strengthening mental health support across campus with the launch of a train-the-trainer course in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA).  

Mental Health First Aid is a nationally recognized, evidence-based program that teaches participants how to recognize and respond to signs of mental or emotional distress with care, confidence, and clarity. As colleges nationwide face rising rates of anxiety, isolation, and depression, Western -- guided by its commitments in the Okanagan Charter -- is leading the way in building a more caring, informed, and resilient community equipped with practical tools to help one another.  

Over the past three years, many Western students, staff, and faculty have completed MHFA training on campus, learning how to be first responders for their peers’ emotional wellbeing. This Fall, Western is going one step further – offering a FREE opportunity for staff and faculty to become Certified MHFA Instructors.  

Up to 16 participants will be selected for this training, scheduled for Monday, Dec. 15 through Thursday Dec. 18, from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. in VU 462. These participants will join a dynamic team of instructors prepared to teach Mental Health First Aid across campus and throughout the Whatcom community.  

This is a perfect opportunity for staff and faculty who:  

  • Are passionate about promoting mental health and wellbeing on campus
  • Are excited to teach Mental Health First Aid sessions on campus this year
  • Available to attend the full four-day training on 12/15-12/18 

Applications are open now and will close on Monday, Nov. 17 at 5 p.m. 

Click here to apply for the Mental Health First Aid Instructor Training

This initiative is about sustainability and empowering the Western community. By equipping staff and faculty as instructors, we are ensuring that mental health awareness and support are embedded into all aspects of our campus' culture.

For more information, please contact Chloe Martin at corniac@wwu.edu