Mental first aid for troops, vets now available

It's like first aid or CPR, developers say - but for the mind.

Mental Health First Aid for Veterans, being introduced in Washington Thursday, promises to give family members and others the tools to "recognize and respond" to the warning signs of mental illness and addiction. The National Council for Behavioral Health says 30 percent of the men and women who've served in Iraq and Afghanistan require treatment for mental health issues.

Yet for a wide variety of reasons, the organization says, less than 50 percent of these veterans receive any treatment. According to the VA, 22 veterans take their own lives every day.

Mental First Aid for Veterans aims to help those closest to a troubled veteran provide the proper support when encountering the warning signs of a crisis or one in progress, and to get them the assistance they need. It's a live training program that stems from Mental Health First Aid USA, introduced in 2008 for educators, community leaders, law enforcement and public safety officials. The new program was developed by and for service members.

According to the NCBH, it offers participants "a simple, proven combination of information and techniques" to help others when needed. It has the backing of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, a leading voice for veterans.

Mental Health First Aid teaches participants a five-step action plan, ALGEE, to support someone developing signs and symptoms of a mental illness or in an emotional crisis:

1. Assess for risk of suicide or harm

2. Listen non-judgmentally

3. Give reassurance and information

4. Encourage appropriate professional help

5. Encourage self-help and other support strategies

Go here and scroll down to "FIND A COURSE" to search for upcoming training near you and links to mental health care organizations.