Providing mental health first aid training in response to COVID-19

Episcopal Relief & Development addressed the stigma related to seeking mental health services in rural and Black communities in partnership with the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri. The stigma surrounding mental health issues is enormous among men and, even in communities with adequate resources men are unlikely to reach out for help. The diocese worked in Boone and Randolph Counties to offer mental health first aid training to individuals and clergy who are dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.