March 26: Mental Health First Aid training

Members of the UND Community are invited to attend the Spring session of Mental Health First Aid training.  Call 777.4187 to register.

Training is set for Thursday March 26, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Wellness Center. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

For more information or to register for the training, call the University Counseling Center at 777.74187.  Training is free and open to the first 30 registrants.

Mental Health First Aid in Higher Education

Today, 40 percent of young adults age 18-24 are enrolled in a two or four year educational institution.  Statistics show that 75 percent of mental illnesses develop before age 25, making colleges ideal locations for early identification.  However, the number one reason students say they do not use mental health resources is lack of knowledge that those resources even exist.

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid USA is a training — like regular First Aid or CPR — designed to give people the skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. The course uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to recognize and respond to the warning signs of specific illnesses.

Who should take the course?

Mental Health First Aid for Higher Education is ideal for anyone who regularly interacts with students, both on and off campus, including:

• Faculty administrators
• Resident advisors and academic advisors
• Coaches and athletic personnel

Why Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid helps people know that mental illnesses and addictions are real, common and treatable and that it’s okay to seek help. Research demonstrates this program’s effectiveness in improving knowledge of mental illnesses and substance use, removing fear and misunderstanding and enabling those trained to offer concrete assistance. Individuals trained in Mental Health First Aid can help:

• Raise awareness and encourage understanding of the ways in which one’s cultural background can impact the discrimination associated with mental illness
• Reach out to those who suffer in silence, reluctant to seek help
• Let students know that support is available on campus and in the community
• Provide information on self-help strategies and campus and community resources
• Make mental health care and treatment accessible to thousands in need