MHACC, in partnership with UCA WAVES, has initiated the "Mental Health First Aid Training" sessions starting this year, aimed at teaching community residents more about mental health and enhancing their ability to cope with and prevent emergencies. These sessions have been instrumental in enabling individuals to become "mental health guardians" for their loved ones.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a certification course managed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. The course is designed to teach participants how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental crises and substance abuse, enabling them to provide initial help to someone experiencing a mental health crisis. MHFA offers two distinct courses tailored for aiding adults or youth, with successful participants receiving a globally recognized "Mental Health First Aider Certificate."

To effectively serve the Chinese community, MHACC delivers these courses in Chinese and incorporates culturally sensitive materials and teaching methods. This approach ensures that the content is not only accessible but also resonates with the cultural values and experiences of the participants. By integrating culture-specific insights and examples, MHACC enhances the relevance and impact of the training, fostering a supportive environment where community members are empowered to act confidently and compassionately in mental health emergencies.

NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 12-session educational program tailored for family, friends, and significant others of adults living with mental illness.

MHACC is proud to offer this evidence-based program with a unique adaptation: the classes are conducted in Chinese and incorporate culture-sensitive elements to resonate deeply with the Chinese community. Taught by trained family members who have firsthand experience with mental health conditions, this program not only provides critical caregiving information but also emphasizes cultural understanding and support.

Participants will learn about various mental health conditions, navigate the complexities of the mental health system, and develop skills for effective advocacy and communication.

By integrating culturally specific examples and practices, MHACC aims to enhance the relevance and impact of the material, ensuring it addresses the unique needs and values of the Chinese communities. The goal is to empower caregivers with knowledge and tools to effectively manage mental health challenges and promote their own well-being, reinforcing community bonds and reducing stigma within a culturally affirming framework

Learn more: https://www.nami.org/support-education/mental-health-education/nami-family-to-family/