Youth Mental Health First Aid USA is an 8 hour public education program which introduces participants to the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents, builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and teaches individuals how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge. Mental Health First Aid uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to assess a mental health crisis; select interventions and provide initial help; and connect young people to professional, peer, social, and self-help care.
Participants do not learn to diagnose, nor how to provide any therapy or counseling. Rather, participants learn to support a youth developing signs and symptoms of a mental illness or in an emotional crisis by applying a core five-step action plan.
On Monday, August 3, 2020, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office of Fayette County will conduct this workshop at the Randolph Recreation Center in La Grange, Texas. The program is being offered in collaboration with Rebuild Texas Fund. There is no cost for the event, but the class is limited to the first 30 to register. To register or for further information, contact the Fayette County Extension Office at (979)968-5831.
Turtle Wing Foundation is collaborating with the Fayette County Extension Office to offer this training along with a second training with a focus on Adult Mental Health First Aid to be announced soon. These training opportunities are important for all community members, in particular those involved in education, ministry, or any youth service organization. Parents, guardians or any family member of a child aged 12-18 are encouraged to attend as well. Many consider CPR and First Aid as training all responsible adults should be familiar with. In today’s society, having this basic Mental Health First Aid knowledge is also critical. This training is free and will provide critical tools that may save a life.