On March 3-4 2020 SFNFCI, along with Saskatchewan Health Authority hosted Mental Health First Aid: Adults who interact with Youth, Prevention Training. This training was facilitated by Jon Bennett, and 2 mentors from Saskatchewan Health Authority, Mental Health and Addictions Services. Elder Violet Naytowhow was present to help support learners during the training. 

 

There was 14 learners who completed this training from Agency Chiefs CFS, Birch Narrows Dene Nation, Kahkewistahaw First Nation, Meadow Lake Tribal Council CFS, Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation, Peter Ballantyne CFS, and Touchwood CFS. This training helps support those working with youth and mental health. 

 

This training will explore the issue of mental health as it relates to children and youth. According to Mental Health First Aid Canada, one in three Canadians will experience a mental health problem at some point in their life. The earlier a problem is detected and treated, the better the outcome. Mental Health First Aid Canada gives people the skills to provide the early help that is so important in recovery.

 

This two-day course focuses on mental disorders and crisis first aid skills specifically for adults working with youth. The course focuses on mental disorders including, but not limited to:  mood, anxiety, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders. The course also discusses stigma and discrimination as well as five basic actions of mental health first aid. Each participant that completes this course receives a certificate from Mental Health First Aid Canada.

 

1. Mental Health problems are common 

2. There is a stigma associated with mental health problems 

3. Many people are not well informed 

4. Professional help is not always on hand 

5. People may lack the insight to realize they need help or that help is available 

6. Members of the general public often do not know how to respond

 

“Definitely more understanding of someone going through mental health situations, being able to be more supportive and helpful.” – Meagan Sylvestre, Birch Narrows Dene Nation