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Sentara launches Mental Health First Aid training program
Initiative for 320 faith leaders focuses on identifying mental health issues.
猫咪社区 is using a Commonwealth of Virginia grant to offer 12 Mental Health First Aid training sessions to faith leaders, who are often the first in their congregations to encounter members in crisis.
The grant is from the Community and Faith Based Micro Grant Fund, which is offered through Virginia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
“The objective is to equip faith leaders with the knowledge and tools to help people with a mental health and substance abuse challenge,” said Katie Bush, director of operations for behavioral health services with Sentara Medical Group.
“Mental Health First Aid teaches the basics in identifying issues and responding appropriately.”
The program will have two in-person sessions—one in Hampton Roads and another in the Richmond area—and 10 virtual sessions for up to 30 faith leaders at a time. The goal is to empower a total of 320 faith leaders to offer hope, guidance, and referrals.
Participants will learn:
• Risk factors and warning signs of mental health and substance abuse issues
• Information on depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, and substance abuse
• A five-step action plan that can help individuals with mental health issues
• Resources available in different communities
“Up to 130 Americans kill themselves every day,” added Bush. “Mental Health First Aid can play a role in reducing that number by helping people find help.”
The schedule of sessions is being finalized. If you’re interested in receiving more information or attending a session, email exchris3@sentara.com.
The grant is from the Community and Faith Based Micro Grant Fund, which is offered through Virginia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
“The objective is to equip faith leaders with the knowledge and tools to help people with a mental health and substance abuse challenge,” said Katie Bush, director of operations for behavioral health services with Sentara Medical Group.
“Mental Health First Aid teaches the basics in identifying issues and responding appropriately.”
The program will have two in-person sessions—one in Hampton Roads and another in the Richmond area—and 10 virtual sessions for up to 30 faith leaders at a time. The goal is to empower a total of 320 faith leaders to offer hope, guidance, and referrals.
Participants will learn:
• Risk factors and warning signs of mental health and substance abuse issues
• Information on depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, and substance abuse
• A five-step action plan that can help individuals with mental health issues
• Resources available in different communities
“Up to 130 Americans kill themselves every day,” added Bush. “Mental Health First Aid can play a role in reducing that number by helping people find help.”
The schedule of sessions is being finalized. If you’re interested in receiving more information or attending a session, email exchris3@sentara.com.
By: Dale Gauding