LAS VEGAS – In an effort to improve mental health awareness and response within the community, the Dignity Health Wellness Center of Southern Nevada is offering three free one-day courses in mental health first aid.
These sessions aim to help participants learn how to recognize, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the wellness center to reduce stigma and increase public understanding of mental health disorders.
“We’re programmed to say, ‘Hey, how are you today?’ and respond with, ‘I’m fine,’ even when we’re not,” said Terry Maurer, coordinator of the Mental Health First Aid program. “We rarely say, ‘Hey, I’m not doing so well.’”
The course equips participants with the skills and confidence to approach and support individuals who may be experiencing mental health issues, giving them tools to recognize distress and respond appropriately.
According to national statistics, only 50% of adults experiencing mental illness in 2021 received treatment. Maurer emphasized that acknowledging a mental health problem is often the most difficult step.
“For someone to come to terms with having a mental health issue is often outside their comfort zone,” Maurer said.
The primary goal of the training is to increase the number of individuals who can provide timely assistance, ensuring the community is better prepared to support those in need.
Upon completing the course, participants will be able to identify unusual or concerning behavior in friends, family members, or coworkers and take appropriate action.
The prevalence of mental health issues remains significant nationwide. In 2021, an estimated 57.8 million adults in the United States experienced a mental illness, representing 23% of the adult population.
The upcoming free courses are scheduled as follows:
- April 30 at Green Valley Wellness Center
- May 2 at Green Valley Wellness Center
- May 30 at North Las Vegas Wellness Center
Each session runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and there is no cost to attend.
