Strengthening Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Preparedness in Emergencies
The Canadian Red Cross is delivering the Strengthening Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Preparedness in Emergencies initiative, with funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC).
This initiative helps communities across Canada prepare for and respond to the mental health and psychosocial impacts of emergencies. It is a national effort to strengthen community capacity and resilience, and to support organizations in responding to these impacts.
Photo: Canadian Red Cross
Emergencies are becoming more frequent and complex across Canada, with lasting impacts on mental health and well-being.
This initiative helps communities:
- Build skills to respond to stress and trauma.
- Strengthen local preparedness and resilience.
- Improve coordination between organizations across Canada.
Free Psychological First Aid (PFA) training
We are offering free, self-directed online Psychological First Aid (PFA) courses to help individuals and organizations build practical skills to support themselves and others during and after emergencies.
- Two courses: Self-Care and Caring for Others
- Available until October 31, 2026
- Online and self-paced (45–90 minutes)
- Certificate provided upon completion
- Available in English and French
Strengthening coordination across communities
We are working with organizations across Canada to inform the development of a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support preparedness toolkit, which will be shared publicly once complete.
This initiative is designed for:
- Community organizations and service providers
- Indigenous organizations and partners
- Health, social service, and frontline organizations (e.g., shelters, food banks)
It is especially relevant for those supporting:
- Communities affected by emergencies or at higher risk
- Populations facing barriers to accessing mental health and psychosocial supports
- Urban, rural, remote, northern, and Indigenous communities
Access to free Pshychological First Aid (PFA) training is available through two pathways:
1. Through your organization (targeted access)
The Canadian Red Cross is working directly with community organizations and service providers across Canada.
- Organizations identified through outreach will receive an email with unique registration links.
- These links can be shared internally with staff and volunteers.
- If your organization has received these links, please follow the instructions provided.
- If you believe your organization should have received access but has not, please contact us at PFA@redcross.ca
- If you are not accessing training through an organization, you can register as an individual through the options below.
2. Individual access (public registration)
A limited number of free courses are also available for individuals across Canada who meet the eligibility criteria.
If you are not accessing training through an organization,you can register directly below. Spaces are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Before you register: check if this is right for you
These courses are intended for eligible individuals who:
- Support communities affected by emergencies (e.g., through work or volunteering);
- Live in or support communities at higher risk of emergencies (such as wildfires or floods); or
- Work with or support people who may face barriers to accessing mental health and psychosocial supports.
You will be asked to create or log into a Red Cross learning account to access your course.
Register for Self-Care
Register for Caring for Others
What to expect after you click “Register”
After clicking one of the course buttons above, you will be directed to the Canadian Red Cross learning platform. To access your course:
- Create an account (or sign in if you already have one).
- After signing in, if you are not automatically directed to registration, return to this page and click your selected course link again.
- Complete a short registration form.
- Access your course directly from your learner dashboard by clicking “My Profile > My Online Courses."
Privacy notice
To register, you will be asked to provide basic information (such as your name and email). This information is used to provide access to the course and to understand overall program reach.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For detailed information about eligibility, course content, timelines, and more, consult the FAQ section below.CONSULT THE FAQ
Need help?
If you have questions about registration, access, or participation contact us at PFA@redcross.ca.
Fraud alert
Unfortunately, some individuals may try to take advantage of this initiative through fraudulent tactics. To protect yourself it's important to understand how to safely access these PFA courses
- We will not ask for payment to access these courses.
- We will not ask for a social insurance number, bank account information, or credit card number to register or access these courses
- We do not send registration links by text message
If you are unsure about a communication, contact us at PFA@redcross.ca.
Be cautious of unsolicited requests for payment and confirm details through official channels to protect yourself and your organization. We encourage you to stay informed using credible sources, such as the Government of Canada’s website for fraud prevention tips.
If you suspect fraud, contact your local police authority.
We want to hear from you
The Canadian Red Cross is committed to continuously improving its programs and services.
If you have feedback or questions about this initiative, please contact us at PFA@redcross.ca.
