BCNC is increasing the capacity of direct service providers to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders by providing Mental Health First Aid Training, thanks to a three year from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s Community-based Health Initiative. We had our first training with 21 BCNC staff on November 11th.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that Asians have the lowest rates of mental health utilization compared to every racial group. Many health care providers lack the linguistic and cultural competency to reach Asian immigrants. As they cope with the stress of immigration, low socio-economic status, xenophobia and racism, and separation from extended family and communities of support, immigrants stand to suffer from poor mental and social/emotional health outcomes.

In response, through the Mental Health First Aid Training Initiative, two BCNC Family Services staff successfully completed the 3-day Adult Mental Health First Aid USA Instructor training and certification from National Council for Mental Wellbeing.

This year and next, BCNC trainers will be training direct service staff from BCNC and other community partners including childcare workers, adult educators, youth workers, and family services staff in Mental Health First Aid, so they will be able to practice non-judgmental listening, empower people to promote help-seeking skills and behaviors in others, and reduce the stigma around mental health challenges in the community.