Training for mental-health caregivers set April 18

The Idaho State University Institute of Rural Health will offer the “Better Todays, Better Tomorrows” statewide training on the topic of mental health for school-age children for caregivers and gatekeepers. Sessions end April 18.

Sessions will be held March 13, in Idaho Falls; March 14, in Pocatello; April 17, in Coeur d’Alene; and April 18, in Lewiston.

Free ISU Continuing Education credit is offered to social workers, nurses and licensed counselors. Parents, teachers, leaders of community groups and religious leaders are also encouraged to attend.

In addition, there will be suicide risk assessment and intervention training. It will feature expanded information on child trauma and its consequences for children at home, school and in the community.  

This program discusses many of the warning signs psychiatrists and psychologists have identified for depression, anxiety, trauma and other disorders as well as suicide risk factors. Early and appropriate treatment for children can address Idaho’s high suicide rate among young people. Untreated, these illnesses can result in behavioral problems at school, difficulty learning, low self-esteem, poor school attendance and grades, impaired social development, difficulties with law enforcement and even death.

Preregistration is required for all sessions. Shorter or customized trainings are available in other communities besides those listed. Call or email to arrange for a special training session.

Sessions are planned at the following locations.

•    March 13 – Idaho Falls, Cancer Center-EIRMC, 3245 Channing Way (Park behind the center or at the hospital).

•    March 14 – Pocatello, Holiday Inn-Jasper Room, 1399 Bench Road.

•    April 17 – Coeur d’Alene, Best Western Coeur d’Alene Inn, 506 W. Appleway.

•    April 18 – Lewiston, Red Lion Inn-Seaport 7, 621 21st St.

All trainings will run from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information or to preregister, contact the ISU Institute of Rural Health at (208) 373-1799, or email todays@isu.edu.