Youth Mental Health First Aid

Why Youth Mental Health First Aid?

 Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in youth. This 6-hour training gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to children and adolescents (ages 6-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care

Who Should Take it?

• Teachers
• School staff
• Coaches
• Camp counselors
• Youth group leaders
• Parents
• People who work with youth

What it Covers

• Common signs and symptoms of mental illness in this age group, including
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD)
• Common signs and symptoms of substance use
• How to interact with a child or adolescent in crisis
• How to connect the person with help
• NEW: Expanded content on trauma, addiction and self-care and the impact of social media and bullying

The course will teach you how to apply the ALGEE action plan:

• Assess for risk of suicide or harm.
• Listen nonjudgmentally.
• Give reassurance and information.
• Encourage appropriate professional help.
• Encourage self-help and other support strategies.

Three Learning Options

• Virtual. First Aiders will complete a 2-hour, self-paced online class, then participate in a 4- to 5-hour Instructor-led videoconference.
• Blended Learning. After completing a 2-hour, self-paced online class, First Aiders will participate in a 4-hour, inperson, Instructor-led class.
• In-person. First Aiders will receive their training as an 6.5-hour Instructor-led in-person course

ABOUT COMMUNITY FIRST:

Community FIRST (First Signs, Intervention, Referral, Support, Treatment) provides FREE Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid trainings to individuals throughout the State of Vermont. Community FIRST is a statewide collaboration between state designated and specialized service agencies, Vermont Care Partners, Vermont LEND and community partners. Community FIRST is made possible by a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to Vermont Care Network/Vermont Care Partners.

COMMUNITY FIRST’S GOALS ARE TO:

• Increase the mental health literacy of Vermonters
• Reduce stigma though education and understanding
• Support the early identification and referral of those experiencing mental health disorders and/or substance use disorders (MH/SUD)
• Increase cultural competency among community members and professionals supporting individuals living with MH/SUD

For more information about Community FIRST, or to set up a youth or adult Mental Health First Aid training in your area please contact Lance Metayer (802) 582-8039 lance.metayer@ncssinc.org or visit vermontcarepartners.org