Empowering Mental Health in the Diaspora Community
Welcome to Mental Health First Aid, a program designed not only to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to provide initial support to those experiencing mental health challenges but also with a specific focus on addressing the unique needs of the diaspora and refugee/immigrant community.
Purpose:
The purpose of this specialized Mental Health First Aid training is to bridge gaps in mental health awareness and support within diaspora and refugee/immigrant communities. Recognizing the distinct challenges and cultural nuances, this program aims to create culturally sensitive approaches to mental health first aid.
Goals:
- Develop cultural competence among participants, ensuring that mental health first aid is provided in a manner that respects and aligns with the cultural backgrounds of diaspora and refugee/immigrant individuals.
- Address and diminish the stigma associated with mental health within these communities, fostering an environment where seeking help is viewed as a positive and courageous step.
- Equip participants with information about local mental health resources and services tailored to the needs of diaspora and refugee/immigrant individuals.
Potential Target Audience:
- Religious leaders, cultural community heads, and influencers.
- Social workers, healthcare professionals, and community service providers working with diaspora and refugee populations.
- Individuals within the diaspora and refugee/immigrant communities interested in supporting mental health and well-being.
Objectives:
- Provide education on mental health that is culturally sensitive and relevant to the experiences of diaspora and refugee/immigrant individuals.
- Foster the development of skills necessary for identifying and offering initial support to those facing mental health challenges within the cultural context.
- Empower participants to become advocates for mental health awareness within their communities, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Mission of the Training:
The mission of this training is to build a network of informed and empathetic individuals within diaspora and refugee/immigrant communities who can serve as the first line of support for mental health. By combining cultural awareness with mental health knowledge, we aim to contribute to the well-being of individuals who may face unique challenges due to migration, displacement, or acculturation.
As we embark on this journey, let us embrace the diversity within our communities and work together to create spaces that prioritize mental health and support for all. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and our diaspora and refugee communities are no exception. But we can look out for each other.
Here’s how you can be a support:
- Learn about common mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. Notice changes in behavior, social withdrawal, or feelings of hopelessness in your loved ones.
- Approach someone with empathy and offer a safe space to talk. Let them know you care and that help is available.
- Mental health challenges are common. Let’s talk openly and encourage each other to seek help.
- If you’re worried about someone, it’s okay to ask directly about suicide. This can help ensure their safety.
- Give them your full attention and validate their feelings. Ask open-ended questions to create a supportive environment.
- Provide information about mental health hotlines, local services, or counseling options. Help them connect with a professional.
- Continue to be there for them, check on their progress, and encourage them to use available resources.
- Helping others is important, but so is your own well-being. Set boundaries and practice self-care.
- If someone is actively suicidal or experiencing severe distress, stay calm, call emergency services, and provide support until help arrives.
Together, we can build a stronger community where everyone feels supported and has access to the help they need. Let’s break the stigma and promote mental health awareness!
Modules and Sessions:
- Introduction to Mental Health First Aid:
- Overview of the program’s objectives and significance.
- Understanding the prevalence of mental health challenges in society.
- Mental Health and Stigma:
- Defining mental health and common misconceptions.
- Addressing stigma and its impact on individuals seeking help.
- Risk Factors and Warning Signs:
- Identifying risk factors contributing to mental health challenges.
- Recognizing warning signs and early indicators.
- Common Mental Health Disorders:
- In-depth exploration of disorders such as depression, anxiety, and substance use.
- Understanding the impact of these disorders on individuals.
- Crisis and Non-Crisis First Aid:
- Differentiating between crisis and non-crisis situations.
- Developing skills to provide immediate assistance and support.
- Communication and Active Listening:
- Importance of effective communication in Mental Health First Aid.
- Developing active listening skills to enhance understanding.
- Suicide Prevention:
- Recognizing suicidal behaviors and ideation.
- Strategies for approaching and assisting someone in crisis.
- Self-Care and Well-being:
- Emphasizing the importance of self-care for Mental Health First Aiders.
- Strategies for maintaining personal well-being while providing support.
Courses
- Mental Health First Aid training for the Diaspora – Adults (English)
- Mental Health First Aid training for the Diaspora – Adults (Tigrigna)
- Mental Health First Aid training for the Diaspora – Youth and Teens (English)
- Mental Health First Aid training for the Diaspora – Youth and Teens (Tigrigna)
- Mental Health First Aid training for the Diaspora – Parents (English)
- Mental Health First Aid training for the Diaspora – Parents (Tigrigna)
- General Mental Health and Wellbeing for newly Resettled Refugees (Tigrigna)
- Healing classrooms: Training for Educators and Administrators who work with refugees/immigrant students
- Working with Refugee Trauma and Torture Survivors
Tesfa-House is with you every step of the way as you work to make your
organization or community safer from suicide.
Your Support Makes It Possible