PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire Community College (BCC)'s Workforce and Community Education department will hold its Mental Health First Aid Training this month. 

 

The training will be held over two days, the first session will be held Wednesday, May 21 from 4-8 p.m., and the second session will be held Wednesday, May 28 from 4-8 p.m. Co-instructors Sarah De Jesus and Jennifer Bishop lead both sessions, available both in person and hybrid.  

 

Mental Health First Aid helps assist someone experiencing a mental health or substance use-related crisis. In the Mental Health First Aid course, students will learn risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies for how to help someone in both crisis and non-crisis situations, and where to turn for help. 

 

Topics covered include depression and mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychosis and substance use disorders. Students will learn how to apply the Mental Health First Aid action plan in a variety of situations, including when someone is experiencing panic attacks, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, self-injury, acute psychosis (e.g., hallucinations or delusions), overdose or withdrawal from alcohol or drug use, or reaction to traumatic events. Teaching methods include role-playing, scenario discussions, and other activities, allowing students to apply learned skills in real-life situations. 

 

Enrollment is capped at 20 students per session. To register, visit  www.berkshirecc.edu/mentalhealth.