Teenagers and Mental Health, Addictions: It's Your Chance to Help

WESTBOROUGH, MA -- Teenagers need support, and this is a good way to learn how to do so.

The Westborough Public Library, Westborough Youth & Family Services, and Westborough High School are giving the community a chance to become certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid on Saturday, March 19, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Forbes Municipal Building, 45 West Main St.

Youth Mental Health First Aid is an eight-hour certification course designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to support adolescents (age 12-18) who may be experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge.

The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan 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 ADHD), and eating disorders. As certified YMH First Aiders, adults will possess a strong awareness of the mental health challenges facing youth in our community and greater confidence in their ability to approach and assist young people.

There is no charge for the course.

Dress comfortably; it’s an interactive training. Snacks provided, but feel free to bring your own.

To register for the course, go here.

Information submitted by Westborough Youth and Family Services

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