Offer educational events on a variety of mental health topics to promote mental health literacy, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and provide individuals with the tools to respond appropriately to mental health challenges, including suicide prevention and postvention. Resources and training provided for clergy, parish ministry, laity, Diocese Pastoral center and the community at large.
Current Initiatives
Mental Health First Aid Adult Training
- A 10-hour course designed to increase mental health literacy skills.
- Since January, 153 participants have attended at the DPC and the following parishes: St. Andrew‘s, St. Patrick‘s, San Francisco de Asis Flagstaff, Our Lady of Guadalupe Monastery
- Upcoming class at St. John Vianney, Sedona.
- Classes once a month at the Diocesan Pastoral Center.
Supporting Wells with Guest Speakers
- Collaborate with parishes to identify and invite mental health guest speakers, selecting topics and speakers that best meet the needs of the specific community and population being served.
- Speakers are available in both English and Spanish.
- Example: January 2025 – St. Jerome’s – Topic presented “Digital Anxiety
Youth – Mental Health First Aid
- In partnership with Sage Memorial Hospital, a virtual Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training was successfully conducted for youth leaders. This collaborative effort, coordinated with Junuee Castro, Coordinator of Youth and Young Adults, resulted in 18 participants completing the course.
- The training aimed to equip youth leaders with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to signs of mental health challenges among young people in their communities.
- Planning for a YMHFA training session in September 2025. This initiative will be conducted in collaboration with Sage Memorial Hospital, continuing our shared commitment to equipping youth leaders with essential mental health literacy and intervention skills.
Resources for Spanish Speakers
- Provided mental health professional speakers to present and or presenting at the following parishes: St. Jerome’s Parish – Topic Digital Anxiety – January 2025, St. Louis the King – Suffering in Silence – Prospective Date: 8-2-2025
- June 2025 – Our team attended a special Mass dedicated to immigrants whose families are experiencing separation due to deportation. During this event, we provided vital resources, including referrals to mental health agencies, and legal guidance information relevant to immigration-related challenges.
- Mental Health First Aid Adult-Spanish Training – A 10-hour course is designed to increase literacy skills. – Prospective Date 8-22 and 8-23 at the DPC.
Catholic Schools
In collaboration with social workers from St. Louis the King and Most Holy Trinity schools, we are organizing mental health education sessions featuring guest speakers tailored to the needs of Spanish-speaking parents. The next scheduled event will take place at Most Holy Trinity on 8-9-25.
Potential Opportunities for Program Enhancement
Volunteer Support for Registration
We are seeking dedicated volunteers who can contribute 8-10 hours per week to support the registration process for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses. Ideal candidates will possess basic computer skills and a willingness to assist participants who may encounter challenges navigating the registration system. This support will help ensure a smooth and inclusive onboarding experience for all participants.
Technology Needs
To improve accessibility and reduce barriers to participation, we are requesting funding for four Chromebooks. These devices will be used during the registration and exam portions of MHFA training sessions. Many participants lack access to a personal computer and find it difficult to complete these tasks on a smartphone. Providing tablets will help bridge this digital divide and support equitable access to training.
Office Contact
Lety Beltran Assad, Education Program Manager
(602)354-2115