The Florida Department of Health in Starke, Florida partnered with Meridian Behavioral Healthcare and the University of Florida to hold a youth mental health first aid training workshop. The program coordinator, Madeline Adkins, emphasized the importance of making mental health first aid accessible to all members of the community, regardless of their background in psychology or clinical experience.
The 7 ½-hour workshop took place at the Starke Church of God learning center and included interactive mental health crisis training. Participants engaged in example scenarios of youth facing mental health issues, group discussions on effective strategies for support, and learned a 5-step plan for recognizing signs and symptoms of mental health challenges.
Adkins highlighted the workshop’s focus on empowering individuals to make a difference in their communities by providing support to young people in need. Each participant received a $25 gift card, and the event marked the first of four mental health workshops planned in Bradford County by the Florida Department of Health.
By offering practical, hands-on training in mental health first aid, the workshop aimed to equip community members with the skills and knowledge needed to support young people facing mental health challenges. The collaborative effort between Meridian Behavioral Healthcare, the University of Florida, and the Florida Department of Health highlights the importance of working together to address mental health issues and provide resources to those in need.
