PREVENTION PROGRAMS

Creating Change

We believe that educating our communities about mental illness and behavioral health is one of the very best things we can do to increase awareness and decrease stigma. Openly discussing mental health not only fosters an environment of inclusion, but it can create real change and acceptance for those experiencing mental health challenges.

  • Mental Health First Aid is the initial help given to a person showing symptoms of mental illness or in a mental health crisis. If you are interested in signing up for a Mental Health First Aid course, please contact Denae Tracy to start the scheduling process.

    Adult Mental Health First Aid:
    Mental Health First Aid for Adults teaches people how to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges in adults ages 18 and older, how to offer and provide initial help, and how to guide a person toward appropriate care if necessary. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, psychosis, and addictions. Learn More (PDF)

    Youth Mental Health First Aid:
    Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Learn more (PDF)...

    Can we schedule a course at a place of business or School?
    Yes! MHFA trainings are provided free of charge for persons or businesses residing in Jackson or Hillsdale counties.

    Virtual Courses:
    With Covid-19 pandemic concerns, MHFA trainings are all virtual until further notice. The new virtual MHFA curriculum includes 2 hours of self-directed, pre-work and 6 hours of instructor-led training on Zoom.

    Are there CEUs approved for this course?

    Social Work CEUs: Both Adult and Youth MHFA

    Human Resources Professionals CEUs: Adult MHFA

  • Sources of Strength is one of the first suicide prevention programs that uses Peer Leaders to enhance protective factors associated with reducing suicide at the school population level. If you are interested in launching Sources of Strength at your school, please contact the Communications department at LifeWays. A limited number of free sponsorships are available. Contact us today to find out more!

    Sources of Strength has been shown to:

    • Increase youth-adult connectedness

    • Increase in Peer Leader’s school engagement

    • Peer Leaders in larger schools were four times more likely to refer a suicidal friend to an adult

    • Increase positive perceptions of adult support for suicidal youth and the acceptability of seeking help Learn More...

  • The coalition is comprised of passionate volunteers throughout the community. We welcome suicide survivors, people who are living with mental illnesses and/or substance use disorders, those involved in community organizations or local businesses or anyone passionate about stopping stigma and saving lives.

  • At LifeWays, we offer customized mental health trainings to local organizations, business, and groups based on your individual needs.

    Customized trainings can include topics such as:

    • Mental Health 101

    • Depression and Anxiety

    • Suicide Prevention

    • Stress and Coping Skills

    • Trauma Integration

    • Coping with Secondary Trauma

    These tailored trainings can be done for any age group. If you are interested in arranging a customized mental health trainings for your group or organization, please contact Denae Tracy.