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As the holiday season approaches, alongside the festivities, people may experience heightened stress, mood fluctuations, increased depression and anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. How can we help one another during times like these?
IFSS is pleased to present a 4-week series for education and connection:
Mental Health First Family Chat Fridays. Designed for family members of people living with a mental health diagnosis, the series will cover important topics, skills and resources, and give families ample time to connect with one another for discussion, and support.
Here’s what the series will look like:
Friday November 15th at 10am – 10:30am: A hybrid (in person and via zoom) presentation by MHA Suicide Prevention team Genaya Palmer and Carissa Ali. How to talk to a loved one when they are feeling suicidal? With Q&A and helpful handouts. Followed by 10:30 – 12pm In Person Family Chat Time with light refreshments. Time to debrief and connect with other family caregivers. Hosted by IFSS staff and interns.
Friday November 22nd at 10:30 to 12pm In person Family Chat Time with light refreshments. Time to debrief, destress, and connect with other family caregivers. Hosted by IFSS staff and interns.
Friday December 6th All day (9am to 4pm) Mental Health First Aid workshop co-faciliated by Mel Bryan and Eileen Strungis, certified MHFA trainers. “Mental Health First Aid is a course that teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. The training gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis.”
How to Register:
A workbook and learning materials will be provided for each registered participant. Lunch is included. Advance registration is required for this in person workshop, and there is no fee. If you would like to attend, please contact Eileen Strungis directly at estrungis@mhainspire.org.
Friday December 13th: 10:30am – 12pm: Festive Family Chat Friday with light refreshments. In person only. Hosted by IFSS staff and interns.
Families are encouraged to attend any or all of this series according to your interest and availability. Please reach out with any questions and have a beautiful weekend.