Introduction to Mental Health First Response is one of five courses in the Mental Health First Response Certificate program. In much the same way that traditional first aid is designed to save the life of a person in crisis, Mental Health First Response focuses on saving lives by recognizing the emotional distress, depression and other issues impacting students. These issues increasingly lead to suicide, violence and harm to self or others when not appropriately addressed in a timely manner. This course will prepare teachers and other school professionals to identify, interact with and make appropriate referrals for students with emotional, mental and social issues. Teachers will also focus on issues, specifically those that may lead to gun violence and/or harm to self or others within a school setting. Additional topics will include how to work with community resources to create and implement an appropriate preparedness plan and use "universal precautions" to preserve staff and student safety.
Number of Units: 3.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours
Who Should Attend: This course provides continuing education for K-12 educators, as well as other school professionals, such as school nurses, psychologists, counselors and administrators. Parents and school volunteers can also benefit from this program.
Course Materials: Text, Pocket Guide to Crisis Intervention (paperback), by Albert Roberts and Kenneth Yeager. This book is available at your local bookstore or online at Amazon.com.
Technical Requirements
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