Mental Health First Aid

When I decided to take the Mental Health First Aid provided by the Mental Health Commission, it provided information so I can:

provide immediate support and guidance in a safe environment

comfortably have a conversation about mental health related issues

ask me about professional and other supports

It is amazing since taking the course how situations presented themselves for me to use Mental Health First Aid.The more knowledge and understanding about mental health issues, the more confident you feel to help others when the need arises. Mental Health First Aid benefits everyone whether you are a family member supporting a loved one, professional or someone who wants to know how to help someone when the need arises.

It is Cool to know how to make a difference when someone is feeling challenged with issues in their life. If our family had more knowledge 22 years ago when our daughter was experiencing mood- related issues prior to knowing she had bipolar disorder, our family would have been more aware of the symptoms and signs.

We did not understand what was happening during the chaotic times in our life or to know how to handle difficult situations. Have you ever experienced chaotic times that has the family in a turmoil? I have. Believe me, it would have helped our stress levels and overflowing emotions to know about the signs and understand the symptoms of mental health issues.

The evening we had to load our daughter in the car because she thought she had the cure for aids and take her to the hospital was an emotional time. She was diagnosed that evening (this does not normally happen) with bipolar disorder which led to hospitalization and getting the help she needed. We, our family, were left to figure out how to manage the challenges of how to communicate effectively or how to listen with more understanding. Learning through trial and error took years to know what to change what was not working well in the family. It would have been easier to have the skills to ease the stress, emotions and conflicting times when challenging times arose.

Mental Health problems are everywhere and affecting millions, it is time to take charge and learn how to feel comfortable having conversations about mental health related issues. Make a difference today, take a Mental Health First Aid course so you can provide immediate support and guidance in a safe environment whether personally, professionally or in the workplace.

What do you think? Do you think the Mental Health First Aid would make a difference in your life personally or career? If yes, call today for more information.