Mental health training program in Owensboro | Health

River Valley Behavioral Health is offering a free mental health training program Feb. 13-14 to help people in the community recognize and understand mental health disorders, intervene in mental health crises and connect people with care.

The program, Mental Health First Aid, is an evidence-based program which uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to assess a mental health crisis, select interventions and provide initial help. The training also addresses the risk factors and warning signs of specific illnesses like anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and substance use disorders.

The training is free and includes course materials and lunch. Participants must attend both sessions to receive certification in Mental Health First Aid.

“Similar to CPR, lives can be saved if more Kentuckians knew the warning signs of mental health problems and understood the importance of early intervention,” said Mike Mountain, Chief Financial Officer at River Valley Behavioral Health.

Mental Health First Aid has been delivered to nearly 100,000 Americans nationwide through a network  of over 2,500 instructors. www.MentalHealthFirstAid.org.

For more information contact co-instructor Lionel Phelps, 270-689-5340, phelps-lionel@rvbh.com.