MICHIGAN — Teachers, religious leaders, employers and others are being offered free and low-cost training that is focused on mental health crisis and tragedy prevention. 

The training is being offered by state officials and is an eight-hour program that helps people understand mental illness. 

Part of the program is about offering advice on how to avoid stereotypes in connection to mental illness, and includes a five-step action plan to evaluate a situation and react appropriately. The training also introduces participants to warning signs and risk factors. 

For more information on the training call 517.241.5765.