Behind the Scenes Announces Mental Health First Aid Training Classes in August

In response to ongoing demand, the Behind the Scenes Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Initiative has posted new online Mental Health First Aid training classes in August for entertainment industry workers in the US at btshelp.org/mhfa.

As the entertainment industry returns to work, the stress of coming out of isolation to high pressure situations, feeling out of shape physically and mentally, and constantly changing COVID protocols are taking their toll. Anxiety and uncertainty are impacting many, as one attendee said, "With the added stress the pandemic had brought us, I foresee even greater need of these skills."

Mental Health First Aid takes the fear and hesitation out of starting conversations about mental health and substance use problems by teaching you how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge, how to listen non judgmentally and give reassurance to someone who may be experiencing a mental health challenge, and how to refer a person to appropriate professional support and services.

Whether you are in a supervisory position or simply want to be able to assist co-workers, this training will provide you with the skills you need. In a post class evaluation, over 98% of respondents rated the class value as very high or high with 95% stating the training covered issues they have previously seen arise in their workplaces. An attendee comments, "Being able to participate in this class, among others who are in the same industry, and facilitated by someone who has decades of experience made a huge difference," while another said "I now feel so much more comfortable in what I should do in those situations because I have these resources that I can pull from."

The course is delivered in two parts. The first is a 2-4 hour self-paced online course that must be completed prior to the second part which is a 6 hour virtual live instructor led session. Go to btshelp.org/mhfa to learn more and to select the date and time you wish to attend the virtual live instructor led session. Upon completing the course you will become a certified Mental Health First Aider which is valid for three years, the company says.

The registration fee is $125. IATSE Members and those working under IATSE agreements may be eligible for Training Trust Fund reimbursement upon proof of successful completion of the course. A limited number of partial and full scholarships are available to individuals not eligible for reimbursement. Private group classes of 15 -20 are available - contact mhfa@btshelp.org for information. Training for Canadians is available through the AFC at afchelps.ca/mhfa.

Behind the Scenes is seeking accredited Mental Health First Aid Trainers who are working in or directly knowledgeable about the entertainment industry. If you have your in-person or virtual certification to teach the MHFA course, please contact mhfa@btshelp.org. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your skill sets by learning how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of distress in your colleagues and help make workplaces healthier and safer spaces for all. Visit btshelp.org/mentalhealth to see all the available tools and resources.