Valley United Way funds mental health first aid courses

ANSONIA - BHcare’s Greater Valley Substance Abuse Action Council (VSAAC) received funding from the Valley United Way to provide Mental Health First Aid classes throughout the Valley. 
These courses include Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid and Mental Health First Aid for Law Enforcement and Public Safety Course. 

Youth Mental Health First Aid introduces participants to the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents, builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and teaches individuals how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge.

Adult Mental Health First Aid educates participants about the prevalence of mental illnesses in the U.S. and their emotional and economic cost, along with the potential warning signs and risk factors for depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders. 
The course includes a five-step action plan to help an individual in crisis connect to professional care and provides the resources available to help someone with a mental health problem. 

Mental Health First Aid for Law Enforcement, Corrections, and Public Safety provides participants with a better awareness of the particular needs of people with mental illness which can help officers and staff better serve the public, work more efficiently, and increase safety. This course teaches an officer or staff person how to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental illness, a valuable tool when assessing an individual or incident.

Studies have shown that the program:

1. Improves people’s mental health.

2. Increases understanding of mental health issues and treatments.

3. Connects more people with care.

4. Reduces stigma.

Learn more about Mental Health First Aid at www.vsaac.org.

The Valley United Way Special Needs Grants Program is a small grants program created with funds that donors have designated to address needs in the community. The funds are separate from the traditional United Way funding program which takes place each year.

VSAAC, a program of BHcare, is a public/private partnership comprised of community leaders and citizens who develop and carry out strategies to reduce alcohol, tobacco, drug use, suicide, risky behaviors, and promote good mental health among youth and, over time, among adults through community education, community mobilization, public awareness, and advocacy in the Lower Naugatuck Valley, Greater New Haven and surrounding communities. 

This is a press release from BHcare.