BOISE, Idaho — First aid classes teach you how to tend to physical wounds, and recently a special series of classes hosted by Optum Idaho taught thirty people how to tend to those struggling with their mental health. By identifying a problem, understanding the situation and starting a non-threatening conversation, Mental Health first aid responders can then help a person locate the appropriate resources.
May marks the beginning of "Mental Health Awareness Month" and Optum wants to spread their message "start the conversation and end the stigma" throughout that month.
The thirty students enlisted in Optum Idaho's recent classes are training to become trainers. Their course was three days long and required a minimum of eight hours of training. When these student receive their certification they are able to train members within their respective communities on the first aid methods.
For more information on Mental Health First Aid classes,click here.
To schedule a class here in Idaho, you can email to mymentalhealthidaho@optum.com
