Zeeland Community Hospital

Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital Offers First Youth Mental Health First Aid Course

ZEELAND, Mich., April 7, 2016 – Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital, in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, offered a community “Youth Mental Health First Aid” course on Tuesday, March 29.

This course was the first of its kind at Spectrum Health and was very well attended. Registration closed two weeks prior to the actual class and a waiting list was put in place to accommodate attendance. Participants came from all over Michigan to learn about mental health concerns in the youth population. The materials focus on education, awareness and prevention of illness.

“This course was outstanding,” said Mindy Sears, ICU RN at McLaren Northern Michigan, who traveled nearly four hours to attend. “Not only did it pertain to my nursing profession, but I think it was even more beneficial as a parent of teenagers.”

West Michigan has been hit hard by mental illness and loss. This course was developed in response to the results of the 2015 Ottawa County Community Health Needs Assessment. In this study, mental health was identified as one of the most prevalent health issues in our community, closely followed by access to health care and healthy behaviors.

“It is very apparent that this area is more advanced in mental health awareness,” added Sears. “This training offered a safe environment for participants to discuss the topics and learn about the available resources. Many individuals were personally affected by mental illness and were able to open up about their experiences.”

There are three other opportunities to attend a session at Zeeland Community Hospital. The cost is $25 and includes a workbook and lunch.

Adult Mental Health First Aid, Wednesday, June 1

Youth Mental Health First Aid, Wednesday, September 7

Adult Mental Health First Aid, Thursday, November 17

For more information or to register, visit spectrumhealth.org/zeeland or call 616.748.2834.

Contact:
Alexis Bolo Neal
Senior Communications Specialist
Email: alexis.boloneal@corewellhealth.org