Gateway Centre of Excellence In Rural Health Is Hosting A Mental Health First Aid Training Course

by Bob Montgomery

The Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health is offering a training course in Mental Health First Aid later in February, in Exeter.

Research Assistant Grace Bonnett says the course is part of an on-going initiative through Gateway to provide accessible mental health and substance abuse training to their rural communities. She says the course provides participants with skills and knowledge to support individuals experiencing mental health and substance use issues, so they're working towards creating healthier and more resilient communities, work places, families and individuals.

The course provides individuals with the tools to increase their confidence, not only in having conversations around mental health and substance use issues, it also highlights local resources that can support individuals in accessing mental health and substance use support. Bonnett says mental health issues and substance use are increasing so their goal is to have as many individuals as possible trained so they can work towards creating a supportive culture on mental wellness in Huron County.

Bonnett says stigma around mental health and substance use continues to be an issue, largely as a result of the lack of knowledge and understanding of the issues, particularly in rural communities. By providing more education on the issues and how people can help someone dealing with those issues, they can help mitigate some of that stigma and better support some people in their communities who are struggling.

The Mental Health First Aid course is being held on Thursday, February 27th at the Trivitt Memorial Church at 264 Main Street in Exeter. The course is offered on a first-come, first-served basis and registration closes on February 14th. Anyone interested in registering for the course can email Grace Bonnett at mhsatraininggateway@gmail.com or go to their website at www.gatewayruralhealth.ca.