Mental Health First Aid at Sauk Prairie Healthcare

Todd Wuerger: If I were to ask you what health issues have the most impact on quality of life, you'd probably say cancer, cardiac issues, diabetes, or another chronic disease. And while all of these issues certainly impact us, what about mental health? For too long, mental health issues were in the shadows. We didn't talk about them, and they were often untreated. Fortunately, the stigma around mental health is lifting, and we are beginning to recognize how overall health includes mental health. Sauk Prairie Healthcare has been out in front addressing this issue with Mental Health First Aid, a free one-day course that teaches average citizens how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses. Dan Muxfeld brought the program to Sauk Prairie Healthcare in 2017.

Mental Health First Aid training raises community awareness of mental health and substance use challenges, and helps participants respond to people needing assistance. First Aiders learn how to notice changes, changes in a person's appearance, behavior, thoughts and feelings, that might indicate that someone is struggling. The course also covers how to approach and ultimately connect those in need to community and mental health supports. What you can do is say, "Bob, I'm still concerned about what I've noticed. I'm really concerned about it, and I want you to know that I'm available to talk to you anytime about how you're feeling. And even more important, I'd like to stop back in a couple days and just check in with you." Early access to care provided by Mental Health First Aiders significantly improves recovery. Mental health disorders are no different than any other serious illness. The sooner someone gets connected to help, the easier and more complete their recovery will be. The training helps de-stigmatize mental health issues. In communities where Mental Health First Aid is taught, people are much more open to discussing mental health issues. When we de-stigmatize these challenges, people are far more open to seeking help.

The good news is that as of November, 2024, we have trained more than 325 people to recognize and help someone experiencing a mental health problem or crisis. That's pretty incredible. But we do have more work to do. Mental Health First Aid is one big step in the right direction, but it is only the beginning. In the coming months, you will see more about Sauk Prairie Healthcare's comprehensive efforts to tackle this important health issue. As always, we will rely on your help and partnership to move the needle to make a difference.

Register for the upcoming Mental Health First Aid on Friday, March 14, 2025. >>Register here