Mental health has always been an important part of one’s overall health, but unfortunately, often a taboo subject.   The need for mental health awareness and education is expected to increase due to the effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic.  According to the CDC, during the pandemic, more than three in 10 adults reported having symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder since May 2020 in the U.S. Thirty-five-point two percent of adult Kentuckians reported having symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder in May 2021, which was higher than the national average. Suicide and substance abuse also increased during the pandemic.  In order to meet this need, the Campbell County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent taught the certification program, mental health first aid (adult version) in the Northern Kentucky area.  

During 2021-2022, 51 adults were trained in the eight-hour mental health first aid course (92 total participants since 2019).   One of the trainings was taught to Northern Kentucky University professionals to help aid their student population. Having been endorsed by the University of Kentucky’s Family and Consumer Sciences specialists and assistant director, this training gives participants the skills needed to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care. The course was taught both in-person and in a blended format.   The following topics were covered:   common signs and symptoms of mental illness and substance abuse, how to interact with a person in crisis, how to connect the person with help, and how to apply the mental health first aid action plan.  At the end of the eight-hour course, participants’ evaluations showed the following areas increased in confidence as a result of the program:

1. 100% could recognize the signs that someone may be dealing with a mental health problem or crisis.
2. 100% could actively and compassionately listen to someone in distress.
3. 100% could offer a distressed person basic “first aid” level information and reassurance about mental health problems.
4. 100% could assist a person who may be dealing with a mental health problem or crisis to seek professional help.
5. 100% could assist a person who may be dealing with a mental health problem or crisis to connect with community, peer, and personal supports.
6. 100% could be aware of their own views and feelings about mental health problems and disorders.
7. 100% could recognize and correct misconceptions about mental health and mental illness as they encounter them.
8. 100% said they could reach out to someone who may be dealing with a mental health problem or crisis.
9. 100% would recommend this course to others.
10. 90% said they could ask a person whether she/he is considering killing herself/himself.