Many of us don’t feel confident talking about mental health or substance use concerns. We might worry it’s not our place, or we just don’t know what to say. At Vivie, we understand that everyone faces difficult times—and we want our team members to feel equipped to offer compassionate support.
That’s why we’ve adopted the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) model. MHFA teaches how to recognize warning signs and risk factors related to mental health and substance use. It also provides practical tools to support someone in both crisis and non-crisis situations, including where to turn for help.
MHFA participants learn how to apply the ALGEE action plan in real-life situations. This might include responding to panic attacks, self-harming thoughts or behaviors, hallucinations, delusions, trauma reactions, or symptoms of overdose or withdrawal. The ALGEE steps include:
Vivie’s investment in MHFA reflects our commitment to care that goes beyond the expected. All leaders and supervisors receive this training—and many other team members choose to become certified as well.
The goal? To give our teams the confidence to respond with empathy and knowledge when someone is struggling—whether it’s a fellow team member, a person we serve, or someone in the broader community. MHFA helps create a culture where mental well-being is part of everyday conversation and support is always within reach.
Nicole Ed Hines, LPN, engagement specialist, brings passion and personal experience to her MHFA training. She creates a welcoming space for learning by sharing real-life examples and providing monthly team training in Vivie’s north communities.
Erin Hurley Robinson, M.Div., M.A., team chaplain manager, draws on her background in counseling and pastoral care to support team members one-on-one. Erin also leads monthly MHFA training in Vivie’s south communities.
Click here for more information about Mental Health First Aid.