Mental Health First Aid is offered throughout the county and upcoming training is offered on May 31 and June 7 at the Congregational Church in Wilton.
"It would be fair to say that most of us know more about medical first aid than about mental health first aid, yet a few simple tools can help in providing assistance," a press release said. "Teachers, parents, teens, front-desk personnel, and anyone who interacts with the general public are encouraged to take a Mental Health First Aid training."
Developed in Australia, MHFA is a training program that teaches community members to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders, according to a release.
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"Similar to CPR/First Aid training, MHFA is an interactive course leading to three-year certification," a press release said. "Participants learn a five-step action plan that allows them to assess the risk of suicide or harm, listen and give reassurance, provide information, and encourage the person in crisis to seek appropriate help."
The two-day course costs $100. For more information, residents can contact Southwest Regional Mental Health Board at 203-840-1187 or at the Health Minds Connecticut website.
