Mental Health First Aid Training Success

The first Mental Health First Aid training class was a success.  Nine people affiliated with the Capital Area Intermediate Unit (CAIU) completed the 12 hour course: 3 school counselors, 3 teachers, 1 Vice Principal, 1 Student Services director, and 1 technical integrator were all from local school districts.  The participants received a certificate of completion from the Mental Health Association of the Capital Region (MHACR) and professional CEU’s through the CAIU. 

One in four Americans will experience a mental health problem in any given year.  However, nearly two thirds go without treatment.  Similar to CPR and other medical first aid trainings, Mental Health First Aid trains the public to assist those experiencing mental health problems by acquiring professional help and support.  Specifically, participants learn:

• The potential risk factors and warning signs fof a range of mental health problems, including:  Depression, anxiety/trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and selrf-injury
• An understanding of the prevalence of various mental health disorders in the U.S. and the need for reduced stigma in thier communities
• A 5 step action plan to assess the situation, selcet and im;ement appropriate interventions, and to help the individual in crisis connect with local professional care
• The appropriate professional, peer, social, and self help resources available to help someone with a mental health problem.

This first class was made possible through a parntership between MHACR and CAIU.  The MHACR provided two certified trainers, manuals, and resource materials while the CAIU provided the space, food, technical support, and professional credits.  A grant from The Foundation for Enhancing Communities provided partial funds for teaching supplies and presentation equipment.  The National Council for Community Behavior Healthcare has brought the Mental Health First Aid program to the United States and certifies all trainers through a 5 day course.

Learn how YOU gain a better understanding of mental illness and respond to psychiatric emergencies.    Help bring Mental Health First Aid into your community.  Contact: info@mentalhealthassociationcr.org or call the MHACR at 717-957-4263 for more information.