Mental Health First Aid, Self-Care and Community Support with Isaac Sandidge

Mental Health First Aid instructor Isaac Sandidge joins According to Jama and Nikki to explain how everyday people can recognize signs of distress, respond with care and connect someone with appropriate support. He compares the training to CPR and basic first aid, emphasizing that it prepares people to help without asking them to act as therapists or other mental health professionals.

The conversation covers crisis recognition, direct questions about self-harm, personal safety, self-care and the role of community in mental wellness. Sandidge also discusses his work with Mental Health First Aid Missouri and how the training supports volunteers serving Alton’s Overnight Warming Location.

Jama, Nikki and Sandidge also consider changing attitudes toward mental health, younger generations’ willingness to discuss their experiences, and the benefits and risks of social media and artificial intelligence. This is the first part of their conversation.