Adult mental health first aid training offered in Wellman

ISU Extension and Outreach will offer Mental Health First Aid on Thursday, Aug. 10, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Wellman YMCA, 525 13th Street, Wellman. The instructor-led program will last for eight hours and participants will receive a certificate.

“Research from the National Institute of Mental Health shows that nearly 1 in 5 adults lives with a mental illness,” said Dawn Dunnegan, Human Sciences Specialist, Family Wellbeing. Additionally, 123 people die by suicide each day according to recent data from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. “Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has responded to these alarming statistics by offering Mental Health First Aid. This program provides adults with tools they can use to identify when someone in their life might be struggling with a mental health and/or substance use problem.”

Participants will also learn how to connect people to appropriate support and resources when necessary. A five-step action plan will be taught to guide participants through the process of reaching out and offering appropriate support.

“Everyone can benefit from taking a mental health first aid course, from agribusiness professionals, producers, paramedics, and faith leaders to teachers, mothers, fathers, siblings and friends. Learning more about mental health can help reduce the stigma associated with behavioral health problems. When we can recognize signs of trouble, we can help people get the assistance they need,” said Dunnegan.

This training is being offered FREE thanks to Project Recovery Iowa Grant. Sponsored by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Washington County Extension, The Wellman YMCA and Ann C. Williams Farm Bureau Financial Service. Space is limited so register today. Lunch will be provided by the Ann C. Williams Farm Bureau Financial Services. To register, go to https://go.iastate.edu/OAVGNG or contact the Washington County Extension Office at 319-653-4811.

Extension programs are available to all without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability.

For more information, contact Dawn Dunnegan, dunnegan@iastate.edu, 319-217-9474 or the Washington County Extension Office 319-653-4811.