ALGEE Alumni Reunion – May 02
(https://fathom.video/share/FYGFHx9Tc_8FVFoxHx9huxahP-i5ziSm)
VIEW RECORDING – 82 mins (No highlights)
Introducing mental health first aid initiative @ 0:00
Richard Fields introduced the mental health first aid initiative at St. Philip, explaining the need to establish a mental health safety net through training 100 church members as certified mental health first aiders to help identify and support those struggling with mental health issues.
Establishing a mental health safety net at St. Philip @ 18:03
Richard detailed the goal of training 100 members as mental health first aiders to create a safety net at St. Philip to help the estimated 400 members struggling with mental health issues. Emphasizing early identification and support leads to better outcomes.
Future mental health awareness events at St. Philip @ 35:17
Upcoming events in May and July were described, including information tables, 90-second presentations on mental illnesses, and a sermon on mental health, to promote awareness and reduce stigma within the congregation.
Online resources for mental health first aiders @ 41:01
Richard presented the online “ALGEE Academy” containing reference materials, training podcasts and videos, and an alumni community page to support those certified and encourage skill use. Feedback was requested.
Closing and next steps @ 49:48
Richard summarized taking feedback, establishing a GroupMe, and conducting more trainings. Emphasis was placed on using skills and a refresher course was requested by many. The meeting concluded with prayer.
Personal experiences using mental health first aid skills @ 50:42
Various members recounted experiences applying their training, including with grief support, youth, coworkers and relatives. All emphasized the value and need for refreshers or shorter reminders of skills and protocols.
Improving support for mental health first aiders @ 1:03:41
Ideas were generated like scenario cards and marketing the need for training. Refresher courses through shorter podcasts were preferred over lengthy sessions. The initiative’s benefits and their role in it were discussed.