Alliance for Safe Kids to host Youth Mental Health First Aid Course

Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches a 5-step action plan to offer initial help to young people showing signs of a mental illness or in a crisis and connect them with the appropriate professional, peer, social or self-help care. It will review the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents ages 12-18. It emphasizes the importance of early intervention and covers how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge.

This course is ideally designed for adults who work with young people, ages 12-18 – teachers, coaches, leaders of faith communities, social workers and other caring citizens. College Students and High School Seniors are also encouraged to take the course.

The Youth Mental Health First Aid Course will be held on two days: Wednesday, October 26th from 3-7pm and Thursday, October 27th from 3-7pm at the Lakeland School District Administrative Building (Board Room). Register now!

Mental Health First Aid Teaches:

• Risk factors and warning signs of mental health concerns.
• Information on depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, and substance use.
• A 5-step action plan to help someone developing a mental health concern or in crisis.
• Available evidence-based professional, peer, and self-help resources.

4 Reasons to Become a Mental Health First Aider:

• To be prepared: Just as you learn CPR, learn how to help in a mental health crisis.
• Mental illnesses are common: 1 in 5 adults in any given year.
• You care: be there for a friend, family member, or colleague.
• You can help: people with mental illnesses often suffer alone.