Student-athletes face intense pressure, yet many coaches feel unprepared to support their mental well-being. The 2022 NCAA Coach Well-Being Study indicated more than 80% of coaches report spending more time discussing mental health with student-athletes than they did pre-pandemic, and also indicated that the top issue facing the team they coach was supporting student-athlete mental health. To address this, the NCAA engaged the National Council for Mental Wellbeing to provide Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) for Higher Education training to NCAA Division III head coaches and athletic trainers. MHFA is an early intervention and prevention program that teaches individuals how to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of a mental health or substance use challenge to avoid it becoming a crisis. The NCAA Mental Health Advisory Group also recommended the MHFA training as a resource for member consideration to support on campus implementation efforts for the NCAA Mental Health Best Practices, which was subsequently approved by the NCAA Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects and the Board of Governors.

How MHFA Makes a Difference:

• Recognizing Mental Health Challenges – Participants will learn to identify warning signs and understand common struggles among student-athletes.
• Providing Immediate Support – MHFA teaches a step-by-step approach to help athletes in distress, ensuring they get the appropriate support at the right time.
• Breaking the Stigma – By fostering open conversations, the program helps normalize mental health discussions in athletics.
• Connecting to Resources – Participants will gain knowledge of available mental health services and how to guide athletes toward professional help when needed.
• Building Long-Term Resilience – Teams will benefit from a culture that prioritizes mental wellness, reducing burnout and promoting overall well-being.

MHFA for Higher Education is an evidence-based training program managed and operated by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing for adults ages 18 years or older to learn how to assist and support other adults with a mental health or substance use challenge.

What does the training cover?

• Common signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges.
• How to respond with the five-step MHFA Action Plan.
• How to interact with a person in crisis.
• How to connect a person with help.
• Expanded content on trauma, substance use and self-care.

Who qualifies for the training?

Up to 30 individuals at each NCAA Division III active member institution, with a specific focus on head coaches and athletic trainers, are eligible for this funded training opportunity. 

What is the training format?

Staff will attend a 7.5 hour, in-person training session with expert Instructors on your school’s campus. Upon completion, they will be certified in MHFA for Higher Education.