Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA)

Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. 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.

5.5 Social Work CEU | 7 Length

Trainer:
Enas Khaleq, MA, Center of Innovation

• Describe the purpose of YMHFA and the role of the Youth Mental Health First Aider.
• Recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health or substance use problems that may impact youth.
• Explain the impact of traumatic experiences and the role of resilience on adolescent development.
• Apply the appropriate steps of the MHFA Action Plan (ALGEE) in a crisis and non-crisis scenario.
  Practice appropriate methods for self-care following the application of YMHFA in a crisis or non-crisis situation.