May is mental health awareness month. One area non-profit is working to help educate communities on how to recognize and help people suffering a mental health crisis.
Lutheran Family and Children Services of Missouri has launched a mental health first aid program to help address a dramatic rise in requests for service during the past year.
CEO Mike Duggar says the training program isn't meant to replace doctors or therapists, but is meant to help make sure community leaders can connect people with necessary services.
“But we are equipping people, whether it's a church or a business, first responders, it could be teachers, it could be pastors, in how to recognize mental illness, if somebody has a mental illness or trauma in their life,” he said. “And then how can they connect them to the resources.”
The organization offers virtual or in person trainings for businesses, churches, schools, or other community groups. To find out more, visit their website.
