Facilitating Faith-Based Mental Health Education Through First Aid Training
Mental health problems are rising in the U.S., even more so since Covid-19. Violent crime is increasing across the nation, as well. In the U.S., Christianity is seen as less and less relevant. This paper looks at how biblically-influenced educational best practices can improve mental health and self-efficacy while imparting everyday lifesaving skills. Recent research has shown the efficacy of faith-based mental health strategies. The past two decades of U.S. military conflict have garnered volumes of data on the psychology of survival stress. The author believes Christians have a biblical mandate to meet the physical needs of those in distress regardless of the personal cost. The author argues that by implementing educational best practices, first-aid and self-defense skills (i.e., pro-social tools and skills) can be taught on the foundation of a biblical imperative using the framework and scaffolding of evidence-based practices in mental health, resulting in improved self-efficacy, a sense of belonging, and enhanced meaning in life.
IDS 499 – Senior Capstone
James Berry
10:00am – 10:30am Bucher Room