Coping with Mental Illness: Strategies for Staff and Supervisors
Presenters: Erin Kelly, Enoch Pratt Free Library
Lea Ann Browning, Deputy Director, Mental Health Association of MD
Program Description
According to NIMH, over a quarter of the adult population in the United States are diagnosable for one or more mental illnesses. The prevalence of these conditions can be seen in both our interactions with customers on the front lines as well as behind the scenes with co-workers. With such a wide variety of conditions and considerations, it can be overwhelming for a librarian, and especially a supervisor, to know how to work with someone in a effective and compassionate manner.
My summary
This session was very interesting and helpful. An overview of the most common types of mental illnesses was presented which included how to recognize (the common behaviors of) the illnesses. Be calm and patient. Expect to spend more time than usual when helping these patrons.It may help to assign seats to patrons-try to place at the end of a row if possible. Routines are very important to these customers. Try to let them know ahead of time of any changes. Unfortunately, I had to leave this session early. There is training available from the Mental Health Association of MD called 'Mental Health First Aid" to provide the initial help for people developing or who are in a mental health crisis.
How it relates to the bigger picture
I think it is important for staff that works with the public to recognize different mental illnesses, and to be prepared to work with those people when possible. I think WCFL should look into the Mental Health First Aid training for frontline employees.
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