MONROE — As part of a commitment to improved mental health in the community, Monroe Clinic is offering two Mental Health First Aid Courses. There will be trainings from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 21 at Union Presbyterian Church, 2702 5th Street, Monroe, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 28 at the Senior Resource Center-Activities Center, 206 E. Stephenson St., Freeport, Illinois. 

Mental Health First Aid teaches a five-step action plan to offer initial help to people with the signs and symptoms of a mental illness or in a mental health crisis, by connecting them with appropriate professional, peer, social or self-help care. Anyone can take the 8-hour Mental Health First Aid course - first responders, students, teachers, leaders of faith communities, human resources professionals, caring citizens. Lunch is provided. 

Research shows that people are more likely to encounter someone, a friend, family member, coworker, neighbor, or member of the community, in an emotional or mental crisis than someone having a heart attack. Learn the signs to help. Email Tammie Jamiska at tammie.jamiska@ssmhealth.com to register.