On November 22, a group of students, veterans, and other interested community leaders participated in a free Mental Health First Aid for Veterans (MHFA) training. The training was hosted by Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (R-KS), the KU Collegiate Veterans Associations, KU Counseling and Psychological Services and KU Graduate Military Programs.

Congresswoman Jenkins met with participants before the training and stayed through the first hour of the session. With Congressman Ron Barber (D-AZ), she is the author of the bipartisan Mental Health First Aid Act, a bill that would allocate $20 million for Mental Health First Aid trainings around the country.  The National Council thanks the Congresswoman for her leadership and dedication to raising awareness of mental illness and addictions and helping Americans access the treatment they need.

The MHFA for Veterans course, taught by Sharon Thomas-Parks of Abacus Consulting and Bryan Gibb of the National Council, introduced participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health and addiction concerns, with a focus on the unique needs and experiences of America’s returning military service members.

The course uses role-play and simulation to demonstrate how to assess a mental health crisis; select interventions and provide initial help; and connect persons to professional, peer and social supports as well as self-help resources. Click here to find a Mental Health First Aid for Veterans course or instructor in your community.