Youth Mental Health First Aid

Youth Mental Health First Aid (Y-MHFA) USA is an 8-hour, evidenced-based, public education program which introduces participants to the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents. Y-MHFA builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and teaches individuals how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge.

Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 is working in partnership with BHSSBC, Inc.

Community Foundation for the Alleghenies (CFA) United Way of the Laurel Highlands (UWLH) to provide Y-MHFA training and materials at no cost to Local Educational Agencies serviced by the Intermediate Unit 8. Additional information can be found at: www.MentalHealthFirstAid.org

WHAT WILL PARTICIPANTS LEARN?

The course teaches participants the risk factors and warning signs of a variety of mental health challenges common among adolescents, including:

Anxiety
Psychosis
Substance use disorder
AD/HD
Depression
Eating disorders
Disruptive behavior disorders

The course will teach participants how to support a youth developing signs and symptoms of a mental illness or in an emotional crisis by applying a core five-step action plan:

Assess for risk of suicide or harm
Listen nonjudgmentally
Give reassurance and information
Encourage appropriate professional help
Encourage self-help and other support strategies