Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) is a curriculum that focuses on how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. YMHFA is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people, such as teachers, parents, and school staff. 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

Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) is a curriculum that focuses on how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. YMHFA is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people, such as teachers, parents, and school staff. 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 AD/HD), and eating disorders. To learn more, download the Mental Health First Aid for Youth one-pager: https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/22.06.17_Youth-MHFA-Flier.pdf.

This training establishes a foundational understanding of mental health. It is important to note that school-based mental health specialists may possess advanced training that extends beyond the scope of this particular program.