Kognito At-Risk training teams up with Saddleback College
Kognito At-Risk Training is a free online program that has teamed up with Saddleback counseling to assist students to recognize symptoms that may cause hurtful actions upon themselves or others according to Maryam Azary, counselor of counseling services and special programs.
“There are three objectives to the online training course, “Mariana DeSaracho said, counselor of the counseling center and special programs. “The first is to help any individual to recognize any type of emotional or psychological distress that they may be experiencing. The second is to gain the confidence and tools necessary to approach the individual. The third is to make that proper referral and take that individual to the counseling center or health center.”
DeSaracho said that the interactive program is built to help three different types of groups: students, faculty, and staff. The training is tailored for the three individual groups. At the end of the course, there is a certificate given that can benefit everyone’s work place.
“The beauty of this program is that a resource list is provided at the end of each training to know what services are given here on campus,” DeSaracho said.
According to the Kognito At-Risk training flyer, a survey was conducted in 35 universities and colleges with 512 students to assess the program. It showed that 70 percent ranked their readiness to identify and approach students under psychological distress. 72 percent reported that Kognito increased the likelihood that they would find counseling when feeling overwhelmed and 85 percent would recommend the program to their friends.
“The Kognito training will help recognize students who have signs of depression,” Azary said. “And gain skills to help not shy away and approach people who display these symptoms and to know how to ask questions to further communicate.”
DeSaracho said that college suicide is on the rise and the program is essential to maintain a healthy environment on campus.