Christina Del Vecchio, Program Manager

Last Monday, CHCACT hosted a Mental Health First Aid Training for Community Health Workers and other staff at federally qualified health centers throughout the state.

Fifteen participants, representing 7 health centers, participated in the training, which was conducted by Health360.

The main goal of the training was to teach participants the risk factors and warning signs for mental health concerns, strategies for how to help someone in both crisis and non-crisis situations, and where to find local mental health resources.

During the training, participants learned about multiple mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Participants learned about the symptoms of each illness, the risk factors, and the prevalence of the illness in the United States.

After, participants learned how to help patients with a mental illness and gain more confidence in talking with someone who is going through a mental health crisis.

In addition, participants practiced developing Mental Health First Aid Action Plans, or ALGEE. The steps are to:

• Assess for risk of suicide or harm
• Listen nonjudgmentally
• Give reassurance and information
• Encourage appropriate professional help
• Encourage self-help and other support strategies

Participants also learned how to do Suicide Risk Assessments and practiced asking the questions out loud to the group. The group also practiced what they would say to a patient who was experiencing suicidal thoughts. Participants also learned about the risk factors for suicide and where to get additional resources. The training also provided information on alcohol and substance use disorders and what steps to take to help a person experiencing these disorders.

Feedback from the training has been positive!

Have a great week! Feel free to reach out with any questions.

- Christina