Helen Ross McNabb Center Trains First Responders in Crisis Intervention

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   May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

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   The Helen Ross McNabb Center leads a 40-hour Crisis Intervention Team training program that brings together law enforcement, EMS, fire departments and hospital staff.

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   The Crisis Intervention Team training program aims to improve how first responders handle people experiencing mental health crises and reduce unnecessary escalation.

4. Candace Allen, Clinical Vice President

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   "We were going to provide training to law enforcement during the CIT training week so they were knowledgeable about what PTSD symptoms are, how to look out for it, how to take care of themselves, when to get help," Allen said.

5. Candace Allen, Clinical Vice President

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   "Asking for help is a strength, it’s not a weakness. And it helps people continue in their jobs and to do the best that they can be," Allen said.

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   The Helen Ross McNabb Center holds the Crisis Intervention Team training several times a year and continues expanding it across East Tennessee, reaching more first responders and healthcare professionals.

7. Relevance: primary · Type: background

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   Both the Helen Ross McNabb Center and Mission Phoenix say their work during Mental Health Awareness Month focuses on improving understanding of PTSD, strengthening community response and expanding support systems for veterans and first responders.