I share the feelings of our country, which is deeply saddened by the recent shooting deaths of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students and faculty in South Florida.

In the wake of the violence, the intractable gun control debate has heated up intensely. While we hear many points of disagreement, I think we all agree we need to better protect our students. Further, we hear more and more about the value of identifying and helping a segment of the population who are suffering from mental illnesses.

So, what can we do? Or, you may ask yourself, what can I do?

I recommend taking a Mental Health First Aid class. The classes are available by signing up at our website communityreachcenter.org. The class is free to those who live or work in Adams County, thanks to generous support from Community Reach Center’s Foundation Board.

Why is this important?

The Mental Health First Aid course outlines signs and symptoms of mental illnesses. Equipped with this general knowledge, participants learn to assist anyone who seems to be experiencing a mental health crisis and encourage them to engage in self-help strategies or reach out for professional help.

The more people know about mental health, the better equipped they are to reach out to someone who is struggling. It’s important; we know that mental health issues untreated almost always become more severe over time.

Having more certified Mental Health First Aiders will not end violence in schools, but we can have safer communities by helping those with mental health issues in an informed and compassionate manner - person to person.

Consider signing up for a one-day Mental Health First Aid class, it may be the best eight hours you could spend to increase wellness in our communities.

Rick Doucet,
Community Reach Center CEO