帝王会所

recently partnered with (TCHC) to offer Mental Health First Aid training to students, faculty and staff. This initiative provided participants with essential skills to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. Similar to traditional first aid, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) equips individuals to assist someone experiencing a crisis until professional help is available. Covering a variety of essential topics, the program focuses on recognizing signs of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation while also providing strategies for offering support to those in distress.

According to Jennifer Kellner-Muscar, OHIO Eastern鈥檚 student services director, "The Mental Health First Aid training was truly impactful for both our students and staff. Participants were highly engaged, asking thoughtful questions and actively contributing to discussions. They walked away with vital knowledge and practical skills to support individuals facing mental health challenges, fostering a more compassionate and informed campus community."

The recent training at OHIO Eastern emphasized empowering participants with practical knowledge that could be applied in both professional and personal settings. Attendees learned a five-step action plan known as ALGEE: assess for risk of harm or suicide, listen nonjudgmentally, give reassurance and information, encourage appropriate professional help, and encourage self-help and other support strategies. By completing this training, participants gained confidence in their ability to support someone in crisis, reducing stigma and fostering a more supportive campus environment.

Chelsea Scott, executive director of Tri County Help Center, emphasized the growing need for mental health support, stating, "The need for mental health support has grown tremendously. As a mental health provider, TCHC sees this need every day and knows the need is far greater than the support available. This is why entry-level trainings like MHFA are crucial for people to learn to provide early intervention that allows for timely support and referrals to professional help." She further highlighted how Mental Health First Aid training is designed to be accessible to those without a mental health background, adding, "Similar to how CPR and first aid help individuals to handle physical emergencies, MHFA gives individuals the tools to respond to a mental health challenge. MHFA training is designed to be easy to learn for people who may have no mental health background. As simple as it sounds, the ability to listen nonjudgmentally and have a meaningful conversation has the potential to make life-changing differences." 

Participants in the training walked away with not only knowledge but also a renewed sense of purpose in supporting mental well-being on campus. OHIO Eastern social work senior Noah Hinkle reflected on the experience, saying, "The training was very informative and valuable for anyone working with people. Even if someone doesn鈥檛 get certified, the knowledge helps in understanding others. More compassion through MHFA could make the world a better place."

Another OHIO Eastern social work senior, Abigail Lish, emphasized the broad applicability of the training, stating, "I鈥檇 recommend this to any student, especially those in social work, teaching, or business. It educates people about mental health and how to support those in need. With this training, students learn how to address mental health concerns and help their communities."

By implementing Mental Health First Aid training, OHIO Eastern is taking a proactive step toward creating a campus culture where mental health is prioritized and individuals feel supported. The collaboration between OHIO Eastern and Tri County Help Center exemplifies the power of community partnerships in promoting mental wellness. This initiative was made possible through the 帝王会所 Wellness Collaborative Grant, which OHIO Eastern received as part of a statewide effort to enhance mental and behavioral health resources on college campuses. As additional initiatives unfold, OHIO Eastern remains committed to enhancing mental and behavioral health resources for its students, faculty and staff. Future training opportunities and awareness campaigns will continue to strengthen the University鈥檚 efforts in fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment.