Traditional first aid training teaches participants to perform CPR or create a tourniquet to save lives. Mental Health First Aid provides the skills to help during a mental health crisis.
Mental Health First Aid originated in 2001 in Australia, and has since been replicated in 20 countries.
The Rappahannock Area Community Services Board will provide both youth and adult curriculums in 2017.
Youth Mental Health First Aid trainings will be held:
February 7, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
April 26, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
June 22, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
September 12, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Adult Mental Health First Aid trainings will be held:
March 27, 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and March, 28, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
May 24, 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and May 25, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
October 11, 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and October 12, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
November 15, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Through role-playing and simulations, participants gain skills to offer assistance in a mental health crisis. You learn the common risk factors and warning signs of mental illnesses, including anxiety, depression, substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
The course will enable participants to offer community resources to people in crisis.
The $15 registration fee includes a workbook, refreshments, and lunch on the first day of training. Classes are limited to 25 participants.
All classes will meet at the Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy, 3630 Lee Hill Dr. in Spotsylvania; except for the April 26 course, which will be held at Rappahannock United Way, 3310 Shannon Park Dr. in Spotsylvania.
To register, contact Prevention Specialist Jennifer Bateman at 540/374-3337, ext. 100, or [email protected]
Visit www.rappahannockareacsb.org for more information. A flier is attached to this article for download.
_____
