The Parks and Recreation department has brought the Red Cross Psychological First Aid course to the city, and program supervisor Shelly Howe said the first few dates of the course have seen a lot of interest.
“We've had some businesses and organizations requests to send their staff people to it, as well we've had some general interest from the public, as they get to hear about it,” said Howe.
The course focuses on the effects of stress, trauma, and grief, and helps build the skills needed to provide self-care and the care of others during times of duress — things that are perhaps not addressed in a standard first aid course.
“Because of course dealing with stress in one's life and developing resiliency skills to get through crises is a fairly prevalent topic in our society these days,” said Howe. “It's an excellent, excellent course. And I believe people leave with information and tools that they can use in their day to day lives.”
The all-day course has already run two sessions, on March 6 and 23, and will run one more time on May 4. Due to the positive response from the community regarding the program, Howe says there are plans to schedule more dates in June and onwards into the fall.
“I think it's going to be something that people are going to look for ongoing. Similar to a standard first aid, the psychological first aid is for everyone and anyone,” said Howe.
Registration happens at the Kinsmen Sportsplex, which is also where people can go to find out more about the course — either at the front desk or by calling (306) 694-4483. Course dates will be listed at moosejaw.ca.
