FOR THE GOOD OF ALL GOD’S PEOPLE
1. Mental health problems are common. Nearly 19 percent of adults in the United States, about 43.8 million people, experience a mental illness in any one year. The prevalence of mental disorders in children and teenagers is also estimated to be approximately 20 percent of the population of that age group during a given year.
2. There is stigma associated with mental health problems. Negative attitudes and behaviors about mental health disorders and treatments can cause those affected to try to hide their problems and avoid getting necessary help.
3. Many are not well informed. Some individuals may not know how to recognize mental health problems, how to respond, or what effective treatments are available.
4. Professional help isn’t always on hand. When these resources aren’t available, members of the public can offer immediate first aid and assist the person in finding appropriate help and support.
5. Few know how to respond. Mental Health First Aid Training is a vital tool to be able to support someone with a mental illness or who develops the signs and symptoms of an emotional crisis.
6. Those with mental health problems may not seek help. Those individuals may not realize that they need help or may be unaware that effective help is available. In the U.S., only 41 percent of those with a mental disorder in the past year received professional help.
For these and many other important reasons, Holy Family Parish will have a Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training on Saturday, February 18, 2023. The training is being provided for the leadership of our parish ministries, our parish professional staff, councils, committees, catechists and all interested parties. Whatever your walk of life, we all meet people in crisis. Being able to recognize and point someone in the right direction can actually save a life.
The day will begin at 9:00 am with prayer in the Fr. Riley Center. Coffee & rolls will follow along with a time to acquaint ourselves with all those attending. Lunch will also be provided for those attending the training.
Julia Gaughan, Prevention & Education Manager of Bert Nash Community Health Center, will be our presenter for the day. It is important that we have a correct number of those who plan to attend this vital training. Deadline to sign up is 2/12.