NASHVILLE — Centerstone, a leading non-profit health system providing mental healthcare and addiction services across Indiana, will host a specialized Mental Health First Aid workshop in Brown County on Thursday, October 1, 2026.
The Brown County Public Library on Locust Lane in Nashville will host the workshop.
The community training session will take place at the Brown County Public Library, located on Locust Lane in Nashville. Lunch for all participants will be provided courtesy of the Rotary Club of Brown County.
Equipping Community Members to Respond to Crisis
Much like traditional CPR or first aid courses, Mental Health First Aid is designed to give everyday individuals the skills needed to recognize and support someone experiencing a mental health problem or substance use challenge.
Organizers point to alarming national statistics highlighting the urgent need for community-level intervention:
- Nearly 1 in 5 adults in the United States currently lives with a mental illness.
- An average of 130 people die by suicide every day across the country.
Participants in the course will learn how to apply a structured 5-step action plan to navigate crisis situations safely and compassionately.
Core Skills Taught in Mental Health First Aid
| Training Focus | Practical Application |
|---|---|
| Risk Assessment | Identifying early warning signs and evaluating risk for suicide or self-harm |
| Active Listening | Listening non-judgmentally and providing appropriate reassurance |
| Information & Guidance | Offering clear factual information and dispelling common mental health stigmas |
| Professional Resources | Connecting individuals with professional help (therapists, crisis lines, medical care) |
| Support Strategies | Encouraging self-help techniques, peer support groups, and community resources |
Registration and Event Details
The workshop is open to all community members, including educators, first responders, faith leaders, human service professionals, and family members looking to better support loved ones.
- Date: Thursday, October 1, 2026
- Location: Brown County Public Library, Locust Lane, Nashville, IN
- Cost: Free (Includes lunch provided by the Rotary Club of Brown County)
- Registration: Advance registration is required. Interested participants can sign up by emailing CIN.MentalHealthFirstAid@centerstone.org.
For immediate support during a mental health crisis, individuals can also reach the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24/7 by calling or texting 988.
