Mercy Health offers free mental health training in May

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Mercy Health is presenting two complimentary Mental Health First Aid courses aimed at empowering community members to better support individuals dealing with mental health and substance use issues.

The first course, focused on Youth Mental Health First Aid, will take place on Thursday, May 15, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This session will be conducted in the Mercy Health Board Room, situated on the second floor of the Marshall Nemer Medical Office Building at 1532 Lone Oak Road in Paducah. The Purchase District Health Department will facilitate this training.

The second course, Adult Mental Health First Aid Training, is scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This session will occur in the Mercy Health Borders Community Room, located on the first floor of the same building. The Four Rivers Behavioral Health Regional Prevention Center will oversee this training.

Both courses aim to equip participants with the skills needed to recognize and react to signs of mental illness and substance abuse disorders. Attendees will learn how to provide initial support to individuals who may be beginning to experience mental health or substance use challenges, guiding them toward appropriate care.

Space is limited for both training sessions, and lunch will be provided to participants. Interested individuals are urged to register as soon as possible to secure their spot.

Leigh Ann Ballegeer, director of community health at Mercy Health – Lourdes Hospital, stated, “We recognize the need for mental health support in our community, and we are dedicated to offering resources and training that empower individuals who interact with youth and adults every day. These educational opportunities cultivate a supportive environment for neighbors facing mental health challenges.”

Both training sessions represent Mercy Health’s ongoing efforts to strengthen community resilience and promote understanding of mental health issues among residents.