Just as important to saving lives as CPR or other first aid for the body is Mental Health First Aid. It’s a program everyone should be familiar with, helping people understand and respond to signs of mental illness and/or substance use disorders with the goal of supporting those in crisis until appropriate professional help arrives.
Preserve life when a person may be a danger to themselves or others
Provide help to prevent the problem from becoming more serious
Promote and enhance recovery
Provide comfort and support
MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID
- Presents insight into illnesses and disorders
- Identifies risk factors and warning signs for a range of issues including: depression, self-harm, bipolar, anxiety, panic attacks, psychosis and psychotic disorders (including schizophrenia), substance use and/or eating disorders
- Uses a 5-step plan to recognize symptoms, offer and provide initial help and guide a person to appropriate treatments and other supportive help
- Overviews treatment options
- Identifies available resources
- Helps reduce stigma, myths and negative attitudes surrounding mental health issues
Those who complete the 12 hours of course programming are certified as Mental Health First Aiders and empowered to respond to a variety of situations, such as helping someone through a panic attack, engaging with someone who might be suicidal or assisting someone who has overdosed.
WHO SHOULD TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID COURSE?
Basically, everyone. Family and friends of individuals with mental illness or addiction or those who want to learn more about mental illness and addiction. Key professionals such as police, human resources and medical workers, schools, faith communities, professional associations, parent organizations, social clubs and other groups that make up the fabric of a community.
REGISTER ONLINE AT MHFACO.ORG
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| UPCOMING COURSES |
| June Aspen |
| June Steamboat Springs |
| July Eagle County |
| August Grand Junction |
| September Aspen |
| September Steamboat Springs |
| September Glenwood Springs |
| October Meeker |
| October Grand Junction |
| October Eagle County |
| November Craig |
| November Summit County |
| November Rifle |
To schedule a training for your organization please contact Kathy Capps, Program Director for Crisis Intervention Services at kcapps@cwrmhc.org or 970.683.7110.