South Dakota State University Extension is offering a virtual Mental Health First Aid training for anyone who supports people experiencing stress and other emotional issues.
Adults who work with or support adult family members, clients and/or coworkers dealing with mental health, substance or emotional issues are especially encouraged to attend. The Adult Mental Health First Aid Course is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 24, online via Zoom. Participants must complete two hours of self-paced online course preparation prior to the Oct. 24 training. Once registered, participants will receive instructions on how to complete the preparatory work.
During the training, participants will learn the warning signs, symptoms and possible risk factors of mental health problems and how to create a five-step action plan for offering support. It is free to attend. To register, visit the SDSU Extension events page at https://extension.sdstate.edu/events and search “aid.”
One in five Americans has a mental illness, but many are reluctant to seek help or don’t know where to go. Symptoms of mental health challenges and substance use problems can be difficult to detect, making it difficult for friends and family members to know when and how to intervene. As a result, those in need of mental health services often do not get help until it is too late.
