During May, National Mental Health Awareness Month, members of the Garland County District Court staff underwent Mental Health First Aid training, an eight-hour course which teaches how to assist someone experiencing a mental health- or substance use-related crisis. In attendance from District Court were Trial Court Administrator Mark Allen, Probation Officer Crystil Richardson and Division 1 Garland County Judge Meredith Switzer Rebsamen.
Course attendees learned risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies for how to help individuals in both crisis and non-crisis situations, and where to turn for help. The course, held at CHI St. Vincent, was sponsored by CHI St. Vincent, Suicide Prevention Allies and The Bridgeway.