CHENANGO COUNTY — Those looking to serve as a listening ear and avenue of support for individuals experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge have the opportunity to enroll in a free virtual Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) certification course offered by Chenango Health Network.

Classes will take place from 9 a.m. to noon on Monday, July 24 and Monday, July 31. Two hours of pre-course work must be completed at least 48 hours prior to the first class, and participants must attend both classes to earn their certification.

Pre-registration is required. To register, contact Chenango Health Network MHFA Training Coordinator Tiffani Gager at 607-337-4233 or tiffani@chenangohealth.org.

The course is recommended for anyone with regular contact with adults 18 years of age or older, including employees, first responders, helping professionals, family members, caregivers, faith leaders, community members, caring individuals, social workers, supervisors/managers, and more.

Certified mental health first aiders do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions, but instead act as a support for those experiencing mental health or substance use challenges or crises, and as a bridge to professional help and other resources.