At the Tampa YMCA, we are dedicated to meeting children, families and seniors where they are and helping them reach their full potential. Assisting our members in reaching their full potential is a unique journey, as each person has their own personal experiences. However, one common theme each person experiences on their journey at the YMCA is physical and mental health and wellness.
To provide our members and staff with the best care, 27 Tampa YMCA staff attended a Mental Health First Aid training presented by St. Petersburg College.
Erin Fiedler, Membership Director at the Campo Family YMCA and Chair of the Emerging Leaders Resource Network, facilitated the course. Dr. Lorette Caldwell-Thompson and Gail Maguire led the course and class discussions.
Throughout the training, Dr. Loretta and Gail addressed these six main topics and guided the staff to become empowered to:
Assess for danger or suicide or harm Refer to emergency and non-emergency services Listen non-judgmentally Provide reassurance and information Encourage and connect with professional help Encourage self-help and other support strategies
After completing the training, our staff felt confident in supporting our members and offering resources to those experiencing a mental health crisis.
Erin shares, "It is essential for staff to participate in mental health training." She adds, "Mental health is important because it affects our overall well-being and quality of life. It encompasses our emotional, psychological and social well-being. As a Y employee, it is our job to identify and support members and staff who might be experiencing a mental health crisis and the training helps us do just that."
You can learn more about our YMCA programs and help invest in the Tampa Bay community by donating today. With your support, we can reduce the stigmas around mental health and foster a supportive community culture dedicated to an inclusive environment for all.
Published Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023.