Adult Mental Health First Aid Training Sept. 26 in Washington

In coordination with Suicide Prevention Month, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will provide Mental Health First Aid Training in Washington. The training will be led by two trained facilitators.

“Research from the National Institute of Mental Health shows that nearly 1 in 5 adults live with a mental illness,” said Dawn Dunnegan, Human Sciences Specialist, with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In 2022, 49,476 individuals died by suicide in the United States or 135 each day according to recent data from the CDC. “Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has responded to these alarming statistics by offering Mental Health First Aid Trainings across the state. 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 in their community 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, parents, 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.

ISU Extension and Outreach will offer Mental Health First Aid on Thursday, Sept. 26, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Hills Bank, 2481 Hwy 92, Washington. The instructor-led program will last for 7.5 hours and participants will receive a certificate of completion.

This training is being offered FREE thanks to a grant from the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center. Sponsored by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and Washington County Extension. Space is limited so register today. Lunch will be provided by Farm Bureau Financial Services — The Ann C. Williams Agency. To register, go to https://go.iastate.edu/VX5NIZ or contact the Washington County Extension Office 319-653-4811.

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