R.I.S.E. Empowers Dearborn Educators with Islam-Integrated Mental Health First Aid Training

DEARBORN, MI — In a milestone effort to safeguard well-being in the Muslim community, R.I.S.E. recently hosted a specialized two-day Islam-integrated Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training on August 24-25, 2026, at Great Revelations Academy (GRA) in Dearborn, Michigan. The intensive workshop brought together 29 dedicated teachers, school administrators, and advocates for Islamic education, culminating in participants earning official certification as Mental Health First Aiders.

Grounded in the nationally recognized curriculum of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing (NCMWB), the program specifically concentrated on youth mental health, addressing the crucial developmental stage between ages 13 and 18. Participants engaged in comprehensive discussions regarding common mental health disorders, adolescent psychological needs, and the growing influence of social media on youth emotional stability. Crucially, the curriculum bridged evidence-based first-aid frameworks with Islamic values, demonstrating how grounding young people in their faith provides a powerful foundation for resilience, healing, and self-worth.

The training was led by Sayyid Sameer Ali, a faith-based counselor at I.M.A.M. He provided guidance and tailored support, weaving clinical mental health strategies with spiritual anchoring in the Islamic tradition. The group discussed stigmas, explored complex real-world scenarios, and learned practical de-escalation and intervention techniques tailored for Muslim youth. GRA’s teachers, admin, and caregivers for students shared their experiences as providers of support and explored appropriate tools that they will be employing for the coming school year. 

By establishing a certified network of Mental Health First Aiders within the GRA school, R.I.S.E. has taken a significant stride toward building safer, more responsive educational environments. These newly certified advocates are now equipped to serve as a vital support system for students by helping them navigate mental health challenges, build healthy digital habits, and access professional care when needed.

R.I.S.E. remains dedicated to expanding Islam-integrated health and wellness initiatives across local educational institutions, furthering its mission to nurture the holistic well-being of youth throughout the Muslim community.