The Ministry of Health in partnership with the Bermuda Hospital Board (BHB) recently sponsored an introduction to Mental Health First Aid workshop. BHB offers a Mental Health First Aid Course to provide staff and the public with the resources to help those experiencing mental health problems and to guide them to the appropriate professional help. The two-day course is part of the BHB’s efforts to educate staff and community about mental health issues and to decrease the social stigma related to mental illness. 

Last week, the Ministry of Health in partnership with BHB held a 90 minute workshop for general public, faith based organizations, and schools. Dr. Cherita Rayner, MWI Clinical Psychologist gave an overview of how to approach someone suffering from depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts. The Bermuda Red Cross was present to promote their services, specifically the psychosocial first aid responder training and BHB provided information on their mental health services.

The BHB Mental Health First Aid Certification course is offered every two months throughout the year.  The first course in 2020 is on 21 and 22 February. For more information and dates for the year, please email mhfa@bhb.bm or go to the MWI section of bermudahospitals.com. You can click here to go directly to the 2020 Registration form and dates.

Photo:  Minister of Health, the Hon. Kim Wilson, JP,MP; Virloy Lewin, Health Promotion Coordinator and Dr. Cherita Rayner