“Mental Health First Aid” Training

From MHAST:

The Mental Health Association of the Southern Tier, Inc. (MHAST) will offer a “Mental Health First Aid” Training on Thursday, March 28 and Friday, March 29 from 8:30 AM to 4:00 pm at MHAST, 153 Court St., Binghamton. This two day training is open to the public and participants must attend both days to receive certification. The cost is $90 per person which includes the MHFA training manual, breakfast and lunch each day. The deadline to enroll is Friday, March 22. To register, please contact Dawn Kirk at 607-771-8888 x317.

Program Background:
Mental Health First Aid USA was introduced in the United States in 2008 and continues to grow in relevance and popularity. The intent of Mental Health First Aid USA is to provide the public with skills to help individuals who are developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Participants of MHFA-USA will learn how to assess harm to self and others resulting from mental illness, listen while refraining from judgment, manage an acute mental health crisis, discuss local mental health resources and recommend evidence-based self-help strategies for people living with mental illness.

Agency Background:
Established in 1927, the Mental Health Association of the Southern Tier (MHAST) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization located in Binghamton, New York. Through our affiliation with the New York State and National, Mental Health Associations we are one of 300 Mental Health Associations in operation nationwide. MHAST is the oldest, continuously operating Mental Health Association affiliate in New York State.

MHAST is, and has been for over 85 years, devoted to enhancing the lives of all community residents by improving their mental health and wellness. Our goals are achieved through providing advocacy and educational services, prevention programs, information/resource referrals and community-based support services. In addition, MHAST works to promote mental health and recovery, encourage the empowerment of mental health service consumers, eliminate discrimination, raise public awareness with education, and advocate for equality and opportunity for all.