DENISON, Texas (KXII) – A handful of Texomans gathered Tuesday at Grayson College to learn how to address the expanding mental health crisis.
The workshop, held in the college’s auditorium, brought together nonprofit members, pastors, educators and volunteers from Grayson and Fannin Counties to learn how to help people in need of mental health support.
“Right now we’re in the midst of a mental health crisis where more people need care than there are professional helpers,” said Jamie Aten, co-founder of Spiritual First Aid, which led the workshop.
The training aimed to teach participants how to respond to mental health needs in their communities as professional resources decrease.
“We have a spectrum of individuals across the community that are joining us today,” said Corey Leird, director of counseling at Grayson College. “What we’re learning is how to respond appropriately, effectively, and empathetically to those in need.”
Jennifer Grisham, who works with Community Well Texas in Fannin County, said her organization offers programs including a LOSS team (local outreach to suicide survivors).
“[We] walk alongside them through that tragedy and trauma of life,” Grisham said. “Taking this class and being a part of this is crucial information.”
Dr. Charles Leslie, a pastor at New Birth Cathedral of Praise Church, as well as a Grayson College recruiter, said the biggest takeaway was the importance of being present for people in need.
“Mental health is about well-being,” Leslie said. “Being present is what I’ve learned. To come alongside someone and find out just how are you doing and being able to support one another.”
Denison’s workshop was one of many conferences led by Spiritual First Aid, who does similar training across the country and the globe.
“Coming to events like this, where I see people coming from all different backgrounds, from all different careers, that to me is so hopeful,” Aten said. “Together, I think we can truly start to begin to reverse this mental health crisis.”
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