KENT, Conn.—There can be no doubt that the last few years have been rough as there are increasing environmental concerns, burgeoning war zones around the world, economic pressures at home and political discord that has divided the nation.
Add to that normal work, domestic and childcare stressors and it is no wonder that many are experiencing depression and anxiety.
Kent Social Services is teaming up with McCall Behavioral Health Network to bring a free Mental Health First Aid Training session to Kent Town Hall on Wednesday, April 23, and Thursday, April 24, 9 a.m. to 1p.m. both days.
Participants must attend both sessions.
The program is free for all Kent residents and town employees.
Following training, participants will receive a certificate valid for three years.
The course teaches participants how to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis, helping them to identify, understand and respond to signs of addictions and mental illnesses.
The training includes content related to suicide, self-harm, grief and trauma.
The McCall Foundation recommends that those who have experienced a loss to suicide within the past six months should attend future training.
To hold the sessions, 10 persons must be registered.
A form is available on the town hall website where residents can register or indicate which month would work better.
Registration closes Thursday, March 27, at 2 p.m. to allow staff to evaluate the interest in the training.
Anyone who has completed the form will be contacted no later than Tuesday, April 1.
For additional information or resources, call Samantha Hasenflue at socialservices@townofkentct.gov.
