Mental Health First Aid Continued Success
The Mental Health Association of the Capital Region sponsored two Mental Health First AId (MHFA) trainings in 2010. The MHFA program aims to:
- Preserve life where a person may be indanger to self or others
- Provide help to prevent a ment health problem from becoming more serious
- Promote recovery of good mental health
- Provide comfort to a person experiencing a mental health problem
The 12-hour course shows people how to:
- Recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health problems
- Provide initial help
- Guide a person towards appropriate professioanl help
In May of 2010 5 people completed the certification course. This was a community training that met on Monday nights for 6 weeks. The class included nurses, staff from mental health providers, and community leaders.
In July of 2010 we joined in a partnership with Community Services Group (CSG) to train 7 people from local school districts at the Capital Area Intermediate Unit. This included school teachers and guidance counselors.
A total of 12 new people gained their certification and now have the skills to help people during a mental health crisis or concern.
We are excited that the partnership with CSG is ongoing. 2011 is going to see an increase in poeple trainined through this partnership. We are in the process of setting up a training with the local police deparments. Susquehanna Township Police Department is negotiating for a training to be held in February or March.
If you would like to schedule a training please call the MHACR office: 717-957-4263
