Mental Health First Aid

K-State Research and Extension, a network of dedicated extension specialists, agents, researchers and volunteers who partner with Kansans to help solve problems, offers Mental Health First Aid, a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance-use issues.

Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based course that teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. 

Monica Thayer, River Valley District Family Resource Management Agent, says the training gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis.

The Republic County Resource Council recently started a Mental Health Coalition.

Thanks to a Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services' Kansas Communities Suicide Prevention Grant, a few of the coalition members are working on becoming instructors for Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid.

The objective of the Republic County Mental Health Coalition is to increase mental health resources and awareness to strengthen mental well-being of all Republic County residents.