This training is held in partnership with WJCS and Child Care Council of Westchester for staff who work with children ages 6-18 years or facilitate school age programs across Westchester. Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach caring adults who regularly interact with young people how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis.
The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step approach for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.
Attendees will learn how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adolescents. You'll build skills and confidence you need to reach out and provide initial support to young people who are struggling. You'll also learn how to help connect them to appropriate support.
Source: MentalHealthFirstAid.org (National Council for Mental Wellbeing)
