Responding to requests from community partners, two Mental Health First Aid USA for Veterans training programs were hosted by NJHA members.

The first, held Tuesday, was a joint sponsorship between Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine and Kennedy Health.  Today, Inspira hosted the same training for another group.

All told, about 60 physicians, mental health clinicians, community providers and volunteers came together for the full day of training, with participants earning a two-year certification with the National Behavioral Health Council. Both trainings were provided under a three-year funded initiative from the United Health Foundation aimed at improving care for Veterans and military families.

Mental Health First Aid USA for Veterans focuses on increasing the knowledge of mental health and substance use disorder issues in the Veteran and military community. It helps participants have an enhanced sensitivity to the cultural aspects of Veteran and military life as it relates to understanding depression, anxiety, suicidal behavior and non-suicidal self-injury. For more information about the training programs contact NJHA’s Mary Ditri.