A two-day mental health training session is coming to Wingham this weekend, giving residents the tools to help someone in crisis.
The workshop is being organized by Mental Health Matters Wingham. Organizer Shannon Mercer says the goal is simple, to help people feel more confident supporting others who may be struggling.
The training, known as ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), teaches participants how to recognize when someone may be thinking about suicide and how to respond in a safe and supportive way.
The course includes hands-on learning, real-life scenarios, and guidance from experienced trainers.
Leading the sessions are Jackie Ralph from CMHA Grey Bruce Mental Health and Addiction Services and Polly O’Byrne, a certified peer supporter and founder of mental health recovery programs.
The training will take place April 18th and 19th, with pre-registration required, by emailing mentalhealthmatterswingham@gmail.com.
While the training normally costs hundreds of dollars, donations from the community have helped lower the price to $60 per person. Mercer says removing financial barriers is key to making sure more people can take part.
Mercer says education and open conversations around mental health are critical.
She adds that even asking someone if they are struggling can be a powerful step.
Training not only helps individuals, but also makes the entire community stronger and more supportive.
