Mental Health First Aid Training for Adults in Custody
Nearly 50% of Oregon adults in jails and prisons across Oregon live with mental illness and lack the tools to manage their mental health or support the mental health of their peers.
In partnership with the Oregon Department of Corrections, Lines for Life delivers evidence-based Mental Health First Aid training to adults in custody.
“I’m grateful for this opportunity and the knowledge that was given. Moving forward, I feel so much more confident in what I do. Thank you.”
Why Training Matters to Adults Who Are Incarcerated
Mental Health First Aid provides lifesaving skills to help adults in custody navigate challenges inside and outside prison walls. By learning to recognize signs of mental health struggles and respond effectively, participants gain the ability to:
- Support peers through a mental health challenge or crisis.
- Obtain a nationally recognized certification.
- Build résumés and employment opportunities post-release.
- Prepare for careers in peer support and behavioral health services.
“The instructor explained concepts very well, even when I had no experience. Thank you for helping alleviate the confusion around mental health crises.”
How It Works
The training creates a peer support network among adults in custody and equips them with skills beneficial during incarceration and beyond. This 8-hour course covers:
- Recognizing signs of mental health challenges.
- Supporting others in crisis and non-crisis situations.
- Identifying and responding to signs of suicidal ideation and crisis.
- Breaking stigma and fostering a culture of mental wellness in correctional settings.
“Martin clearly cares about the program and planting seeds of hope and help for people in the field and people struggling. Very good training – thank you!”
Impact & Future Growth
Mental Health First Aid is already making a difference in Oregon correctional facilities, equipping adults in custody with valuable skills and creating a shift in prison culture by encouraging open conversations about mental health and reducing stigma.
Oregon Department of Corrections leadership recognized Lines for Life for our effectiveness in training adults in custody. We will broaden our efforts by:
- Training more adults in custody across multiple facilities.
- Adding Spanish-language Mental Health First Aid training.
- Strengthening peer mentoring programs to enhance support networks.
- Developing re-entry pathways to help trained adults in custody use their skills in the community.
Together, we’re changing the culture of incarceration, building mental health skills on the inside so adults in custody can support their peers during incarceration and contribute to the well-being of their communities after release.
“Delivering mental health skills to adults in custody is changing the culture – destigmatizing mental health, equipping these adults to support themselves and their peers, and bolstering their résumés.”