Mental Health First Aid Monthly Newsletter

 

As Black History Month comes to a close, we want to acknowledge the importance of supporting everyone around you, all races, socioeconomic groups and cultural backgrounds. The events of this past year have not been easy, particularly in terms of mental health for Black Americans in comparison to the rest of the population. Though we have made great strides in talking about mental health, stigma prevents many within the Black community from discussing any challenges they may have. On top of that, the legacy of slavery and institutional racism impedes many from getting adequate professional care. So, even as we celebrate Black History Month and the successes and contributions made by Black Americans, we are reminded that there is still much work to do. That’s why this month, we’re sharing a variety of resources and educational tools to help frame the inequities in mental health care, including a guest commentary from Tramaine EL-Amin, Assistant Vice President of Strategic Partnerships with Mental Health First Aid USA, who underscores the importance of supporting your Black coworkers and employees during this unprecedented time. We encourage you to explore all of the articles and resources shared to get a better picture of the current state of mental health for Black Americans so you can #BeTheDifference for everyone in your community. Be sure to check us out on our blog and social media channels for daily information and tips, including Twitter, Facebook and Instagram!

Virtual Event Opportunity! On March 5, join Mental Health First Aid’s Tramaine EL-Amin and others to discuss how companies are taking the lead in addressing the strain the COVID-19 pandemic is putting on mental health in an enduring way that will guide us into a healthier future. This conversation will be part of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s 11th Annual International Women’s Day Forum: Business Powering a New Tomorrow. There is no cost to attend the event. Learn more and register today.

Tips from the Curriculum

Supporting the Black Community as a Mental Health First Aider As a Mental Health First Aider, it is important to understand the disparities that exist between demographic groups. We highlight how behavioral health within the Black community differs from the rest of the population and provide resources so you can use your training to offer the best support. Read more.

Addressing Increasing Suicide Rates in the Black Community and How You Can Help The COVID-19 pandemic has encouraged us to take a closer look at our mental health, and recent data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) show that Black Americans are dying by suicide at higher rates than other demographic groups. We take a closer look at recent trends and explain how Mental Health First Aid can help. Read More.

During Black History Month, Understand Workplace Concerns of Black Employees The traumatic events of the past year have disproportionately affected the mental health of Black Americans, who are carrying more of an emotional burden than others. Our guest commentary from Tramaine EL-Amin at Mental Health First Aid USA emphasizes the importance of checking in with and supporting your Black coworkers and employees. Read more.

ALGEE in the News

A local community center in Evanston, Ill., offered virtual Mental Health First Aid to residents in the hopes that the training will encourage them to have more open and honest conversations around mental health. Read more.       In an effort to improve a recent local rise in mental health crises in youth and young adults, the Citrus County School District and the Citrus Health Improvement Partnership in Florida are offering free Youth Mental Health First Aid to parents. Read more.       A local organization in Kingstown, R.I., is offering free Mental Health First Aid courses in response to a recent report showing worsening mental health nationwide. 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.