In response to the pressing need for mental health support in the community, the Council for Youth Development (CYD) is extending a valuable opportunity for individuals to participate in free or reduced-priced Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training sessions. Aimed at empowering participants to recognize and respond to mental health challenges, these evidence-based courses are scheduled to commence in June, following an informative session slated for next week.
Led by CYD Professional Development Coordinator and MHFA Instructor, Allison Stidam, the training sessions will equip participants with the skills to identify, understand, and address signs of mental health and substance use challenges. Analogous to CPR training for aiding individuals experiencing cardiac distress, MHFA offers practical guidance for engaging with those facing mental health crises or challenges.
Statistics from CYD reveal that one in five Americans has encountered mental health difficulties, with depression and anxiety on the rise in recent years. Unlike physical ailments, symptoms of mental health issues may not be immediately apparent, making early detection and intervention crucial. MHFA seeks to bridge the gap between symptom onset and appropriate support, thus facilitating timely assistance.
CYD is offering three distinct MHFA courses tailored to various demographics:
Mental Health First Aid for Adults: Designed to assist participants in recognizing and providing initial help for mental health or substance use challenges in adults aged 18 and above.
Youth Mental Health First Aid (for Adults Assisting Youth): Geared towards adults who frequently interact with young individuals, this course equips participants with strategies for supporting adolescents facing mental health or addiction issues.
Teen Mental Health First Aid: Tailored for high school students in grades 9-12, this course empowers teens to identify and respond to mental health and substance use challenges among their peers.
An informative virtual session is scheduled for Thursday evening, offering interested individuals an opportunity to learn more about the courses. Registration is mandatory to receive the Zoom link, which will be provided via email before the event.
Thanks to a grant, residents, workers, or volunteers in Bartholomew County can attend these courses free of charge, while out-of-county participants will be subject to a reduced fee of $23.95. Each participant will receive a comprehensive manual, processing guide, and resource folder during the Instructor-Led Training session, along with access to the MHFA online training platform.
Drawing from personal experiences with mental health challenges during her teenage years, Stidam is passionate about destigmatizing mental health issues and fostering open dialogue. As a Columbus native, she understands the importance of community support in navigating such challenges and aims to provide a safe space for individuals to seek assistance and support.
“I want to do all I can to break the stigma surrounding mental health challenges and normalize conversations about mental health,” Stidam affirmed, emphasizing the significance of solidarity and compassion in addressing mental health concerns.
