Story Medical recently hosted a Mental Health First Aid training session, bringing together more than 25 Nevada Rotarians and Story Medical staff and partners, for an interactive, full-day course focused on strengthening mental health awareness and response across the community.
Facilitated in partnership with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, the training equips participants with the skills needed to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders.
Mental Health First Aid is often compared to traditional first aid or CPR — not because it replaces professional care, but because it provides individuals with the tools to offer initial support and help connect someone to appropriate resources during a crisis. Participants learn to recognize warning signs, engage in supportive conversations, and take action using a proven, step-by-step approach.
The training is part of Story Medical’s ongoing commitment to promoting mental health resiliency in Story County through grant-supported initiatives focused on education and community engagement.
“Expanding access to mental health education is critical to building a stronger, more resilient community,” says Liz Zuercher of the Story Medical Foundation. “This training helps equip individuals with the confidence and tools to support others in meaningful ways. We are proud to support programs that make a lasting impact beyond the walls of our hospital.”
Programs like Mental Health First Aid play a vital role in reducing stigma, increasing awareness, and empowering community members to respond when mental health challenges arise.
“At Story Medical, we recognize that caring for our community goes beyond physical health,” says Nate Thompson, CEO of Story Medical. “By investing in programs like Mental Health First Aid, we are helping ensure that more people are prepared to respond, support, and connect individuals to care when it matters most.”
Story Medical plans to continue offering opportunities for education and engagement as part of its broader mission to support the health and well-being of the communities it serves.