Two mental health courses set for April

Mental Health First Aid course set for April 6

St. Paul Lutheran Church will host Mental Health First Aid training on Saturday, April 6, from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. The class is free and open to the public. Signup is required, at scottcountykids.org/training-registration.

Mental Health First Aid gives people the skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. The evidence behind the program demonstrates that it builds mental health literacy, helping the public identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness.

Mental Health First Aiders learn a single five-step strategy that includes assessing risk, respectfully listening to and supporting the individual in crisis, and identifying appropriate professional help and other supports. Participants are also introduced to risk factors and warning signs for mental health or substance use problems, engage in experiential activities that build understanding of the impact of illness on individuals and families, and learn about evidence-supported treatment and self-help strategies.

The course will be taught by Dawn Knutson, family advocate/family systems coordinator at Scott County Kids. It is supported by the St. Paul Mental Health Awareness Team. Contact: Pastor Sara Olson-Smith, 563-326-3547 or sara@stpaulqc.org.

NAMI Family-to-Family begins April 23

NAMI’s Family-to-Family will be held 12 Tuesday evenings from April 23 to July 9 at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Register by April 19. The course is designed for family members and caregivers of individuals 18 years or older living with a mental health condition.

Course topics include family response to trauma, diagnosis and dealing with critical periods, problem solving, communications skills, and self-care for caregivers. The program is taught by trained family members who have lived experience.

To register for NAMI courses, visit www.namigmv.org or call 563-386-7477 Ext. 266.