研讨会旨在推动具有文化敏感性的心理健康支持工作
Training programs focused on Black and Asian mental health give members the tools to support those facing challenges
York Regional Police offered members and residents a number of culture-specific workshops focused on mental health and wellness in 2025. These full day training programs are designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide culturally sensitive support to individuals facing mental health challenges or crises.
Black Mental Health Canada Inc. Workshop
The Black Mental Health First Response (BMHFR) program addresses and identifies common mental health disorders and crisis situations. The workshop also detailed strategies for offering culturally competent care. The program aims to train attendees on how to recognize signs of mental health issues prevalent in the Black community, including the effects of historical trauma, racism, and culturally specific stressors.
The goal is to provide immediate support until appropriate professional help tailored to the needs of the Black individuals can be accessed.
“The Black and Asian Mental Health Training created valuable opportunities for open conversation about reducing stigma, building empathy, increasing cultural awareness, and improving judgment during calls for service,” said Constable Ava Griffith of the Mental Health Engagement Outreach Team.
More than 90 frontline officers and community members attended the session presented by Duane Wiafe an acclaimed clinical social worker.
Culturally Competent Care: Supporting Mental Health in Asian Communities
More than 115 people, including York Regional Police members, attended the Community Safety Village for the Supporting Mental Health in Asian Communities workshop. The session, hosted by YRP, educated attendees about some of the common mental health disorders and challenging situations they may encounter while also acknowledging including the effects of historical trauma, racism, and culturally specific stressors.
“The workshop strengthened important skills such as communication, support and de-escalation, while helping us develop new ways to connect individuals and families with the right resources in a respectful and effective manner. Training like this supports safer outcomes and helps strengthen trust with the communities we serve,” explained Constable Griffith.
This training session was supported by the Hong Fook Care Association which specializes in the mental health and well-being of Asian people. The material was facilitated by a variety of presenters including Dr. Michael Mak, Mai-Vy Nguyen, Emillie Nguyen and Maria Lo, skilled practitioners and subject matter experts.
Both workshops welcomed attendees from a variety of cultures and garnered positive feedback with attendees appreciating the skills they learned about how to work with and support both communities.
