A recent refresher class in Mental Health training generated so much interest it didn’t take long before the 35 available spots were filled. All of the participants had previously taken the two-day training program on Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)

“I think it helps to keep it front and centre for people,” says Mike Condra, Director, Health, Counselling and Disability Services. “They might not use the skills very often, but even if they don’t, it’s important to have them.”

The aim of the one-hour class is to remind participants of the general principles of MHFA and answer their questions. It also helps maintain interest for people who’ve taken the two-day course. Topics covered include defining mental health and mental illness and exploring stigma.

“The level of interest in the course was quite striking,” Dr. Condra says of the class. “We had a great discussion afterwards and everyone was very engaged.”

More than 420 people, including faculty, staff and students, have taken the two-day MHFA course since it was launched in 2008. A 45-minute session is presented to a broader range of campus community members, including dons and orientation week leaders. Dr. Condra is also developing a new half-day program he hopes will launch this fall.

Due to the popularity of the class, more refresher classes are currently being scheduled. The next one will be held Tuesday, June 26 from noon to 1 pm. To register, contact Bonnie Livingstone at livingsb@queensu.ca or ext. 78886.

More information about Mental Health First Aid