Westfield Area YMCA Offers Youth Mental Health First Aid Training

The Westfield Area YMCA recognizes that stress, anxiety and depression are conditions that occur in all of us, including our youth. To help build awareness and understanding, mental health first aid trainings are being offered to members and non-members at the Main Y Facility, 220 Clark Street in Westfield. A training is scheduled for Sunday, November 20th from 11:00 am-7:00 pm.

An estimated 60 million U.S. citizens experience a mental health disorder in any given year, while more than 50% meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental illness at some point in their lives. Yet up to two-thirds do not get treatment which can lead to unemployment, substance abuse, school drop-out, family dysfunction and more!

Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human service workers and other caring citizens how to help adolescents (ages 12-18) who are experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or who are in a crisis. In this training, participants will learn to understand the unique risk factors and warning signs of a variety of mental health challenges common to youth, including anxiety, depression, psychosis, eating disorders, ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders, and substance abuse disorders and teaches a five-step action plan to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations.

Lunch will be provided. Registration is required and a special rate is available for nonprofit staff members. Registration is available online at www.westfieldynj.org/node/2207. Please feel free to contact Bonnie Cohen with questions at 908-233-2700 x240 or bcohen@westfieldynj.org.

The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Visit www.westfieldynj.org to learn more about Westfield Area Y programs. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.