Know how to spot an adolescent in crisis

You may be trained in CPRand the Heimlich maneuver, you can call 911, but will you know how to help in a mental health emergency?

The words first aid often conjure images of rolled gauze or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, but Panhandle Health Group is offering a first aid class of a different kind on Saturday, July 29 at the Dix Community Center.

The all day class, from 8 – 5, is geared towards mental health first aid and focuses on the unique risk factors and warning signs adolescents may display of mental health problems.

Emphasis will be placed on early intervention and how to help an adolescent, aged 12 – 18, who is experiencing a mental health challenge or is in crisis.

Illness-specific information will be shared for depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis and substance abuse and participants will be given a five step plan to address burgeoning mental health challenges or crises in adolescents.

Who takes the course? Anyone who wants to provide relief and assistance to someone experiencing crisis or struggling with a mental health concern. This course would be beneficial for clergy, teachers and school administrators, human resource professionals, medical caregivers, public safety personnel, social service staff and volunteers, emergency responders and law enforcement individuals.

For more information, contact Phil Darley at [email protected] or call 308-635-3171.

Four reason to become a mental health first aider -

1. To be prepared – just as you learn CPR, learn how to help in a mental health crisis.

2. Mental illnesses are common – 1 in 5 adults in any given year.

3. You care – be there for a friend, family member or colleague.

4. You can help – people with mental illnesses often suffer alone.