Mental Health First Aid Monthly Newsletter

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#BeTheDifference With Support Strategies From MHFA   One in five adults in the United States face a mental illness in any one year – that’s almost 44 million people. And especially right now, people across the country are experiencing feelings of stress and fear because of the new disease and feelings of isolation because of physical distancing requirements. This means someone around you right now may be struggling. People who are facing mental health or addiction challenges may find it hard to seek and get the help they may need. They may not know who to talk to, where to go or even what to say. Thankfully, there are a variety of things that can help, including having a good support system of people that you like, respect and trust. Support from loved ones, peers and appropriate professionals can make a big difference on your mental health and well-being. It can even make recovery from mental health symptoms easier and quicker. That's why this month, we will be sharing information on how Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) can help you recognize when your loved one is struggling and how you can offer support, especially during COVID-19.  Check out the below graphic and blog posts for tips and resources to help you #BeTheDifference for those around you and share them with your network. We're sharing all of this on social media too -- follow us on Twitter and Facebook!     Tips from the Curriculum   The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health COVID-19 has impacted millions of Americans physically, mentally and emotionally. We've compiled a list of tips and resources that can help.  Read more.     The Importance of Having a Support System Having a few people you trust and can turn to can help you manage everyday challenges, make difficult decisions and thrive during a crisis situation. Read more.     Why tMHFA Is More Important Now Than Ever Before We all know a young person who has struggled with mental illness or addiction issues, but we don't always know how to help them. That's where tMHFA comes in. Read more.     ALGEE in the News     A state grant will help fund MHFA trainings for teachers and school staff in Santa Barbara County. Read more.       The Bristol, Tennessee Fire Department trained all of its Fire and EMS personnel in MHFA. Read more.       MHFA community trainings are helping build healthy communities across the country. Read more.       Thank you for choosing to #BeTheDifference, Mental Health First Aid USA     The  National Council for Behavioral Health is the unifying voice of America’s health care organizations that deliver mental health and addictions treatment and services. Together with our 3,326 member organizations serving over 10 million adults, children and families living with mental illnesses and addictions, the National Council is committed to all Americans having access to comprehensive, high-quality care that affords every opportunity for recovery. The National Council introduced  Mental Health First Aid USA  and 2 million Americans have been trained. For more information, please visit  www.TheNationalCouncil.org.