Next Mental Health First Aid training set for April 19

Invest Hamilton County, in partnership with Chambers of Commerce across the county, will hold its next quarterly Mental Health First Aid training focused on employers throughout Hamilton County. The event is set for April 19.

Typically, this training costs at least $250 to $400 per person, but thanks to support from the Hamilton County Council and Commissioners via the ARPA Committee, this training will only cost $40 per person (includes materials and lunch) throughout 2022 and 2023. Mental Health America of Indiana will conduct training.

The next program will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19 at The Bridgewater Club, 3535 E. 161st St.

Click here to register.

Why mental health first aid

Mental Health First Aid teaches you to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. This eight-hour training gives you the skills you need to reach out, provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem, and help connect them to appropriate care.

What it covers

  • Common signs and symptoms of mental illness
  • Common signs and symptoms of substance use
  • How to interact with a person in crisis
  • How to connect the person with help
  • How to administer naloxone in the event of an opioid overdose

The course will teach you how to apply the ALGEE Action Plan:

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

With the current state of affairs and society’s growing openness to discussing mental health, all of the Chambers in Hamilton County believe that this will become a staple program offered for years to come.