First Aid For Mental Health-Take the training

If your friend, co-worker or family member was suffering from an anxiety disorder or a substance abuse disorder would you recognize the signs? Would you know how to help? One in four Americans lives with a mental health problem each year. An estimated 19 million Americans suffer from depression and an estimated 25 million Americans suffer from substance dependence or abuse. Mental health problems are more common than heart disease, lung disease and cancer combined.

Mental Health First Aid can teach you to provide help and intervention. Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based 12 hour certification program, which uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to assess a mental health crisis, select interventions and provide initial help. The training addresses the risk factors and warning signs of mental health disorders and substance use disorders.

Anxiety disorders which affect more than 18 percent of U.S. adults (55 million people), is the most common mental disorder. Everyone experiences some level of stress and anxiety, but being able to recognize an anxiety disorder early on could have a huge impact on someone’s life.  If left untreated people with anxiety disorders are more likely to have negative outcomes later in life, including depression, alcohol and drug dependence and even suicide. We encourage you to know the warning signs.

To date, more than 30,000 individuals across the United States have been trained by one of the 1,400 certified Mental Health First Aid instructors.  Rushford will be offering the 12 hour course over two consecutive Mondays, beginning on May 7^th and concluding on May 14^th .  This is open to Meriden and Wallingford residents and professionals with funding provided by the Meriden and Wallingford United Way.  If you are interested in becoming trained or would like any information about Mental Health First Aid, please contact me at 203-630-5357 or sspragu@rushford.org.  Space is very limited, so please register asap.