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Studies find many groups experiencing worsening mental health
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Announces Community Mental Health First Aid Classes
LITTLE ROCK, ARK (June 12, 2025) — Mental health challenges are growing among certain groups of people. A report in the JAMA Internal Medicine examined 200,000 new mothers. One in 12 said their mental health was only fair or poor. Those with disabilities are also struggling. Nearly 34 percent report frequent mental distress. Young adults are another segment experiencing worsening mental health. According to Mental Health America, nearly 60 million people live with mental illness in the United States, with those 18-25 years old experiencing the most mental health challenges.
The Centers for Disease Control ranks Arkansas 20th in the nation for suicides per capita.
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield continues to offer community Mental Health First Aid classes at no cost to participants across the state. Three new classes have been scheduled this summer, designed to equip participants with the skills needed to assist individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, such as thoughts of suicide.
“The response to these classes has been tremendous. Parents, friends, healthcare providers, educators and members of the community are coming together to end the stigma surrounding mental health. They want to make a difference, and it’s inspiring,” said Kristen Lippencott, Mental Health First Aid instructor and Arkansas Blue Cross manager of well-being and health solution strategies.
The classes are open to anyone around the state and will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the following dates and locations:
- Wednesday, July 16 – Searcy Harding University
- Wednesday, August 20 – Arkadelphia Dawson Education Service Cooperative
- Wednesday, September 17 – Russellville Arkansas Tech University (Co-sponsored by Arkansas Tech)
The upcoming classes are located in regions of the state with some of the highest rates of suicide. The training includes a three-year certification through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
“Statistically, one in five people will be diagnosed with a mental health disorder in any given year. If you think about how many friends you have, family members, co-workers – that’s a lot of people you know who might be struggling right now,” Lippencott added
Mental Health First Aid is an essential skill that can help save lives and support those in need. By hosting these classes, Arkansas Blue Cross aims to promote mental health awareness and provide valuable resources to the community.
Participants will learn how to recognize the signs of mental health issues, provide initial support, and guide individuals toward appropriate professional help. The training is suitable for any adult, regardless of their background or experience.
Class sizes are limited. Participants can register at arkansasbluecross.com/firstaid.