Youth Mental Health First Aid

To find out about the next YMHFA training in this area contact call 508-556-6173.

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 support adolescents (ages 12 to 18) who may be experiencing a mental health or addiction challenge. 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 ADHD), and eating disorders. As certified YMH First Aiders, adults will possess a strong awareness of the mental health challenges facing youth in our community and greater confidence in their ability to approach and assist young people.

Westborough Youth and Family Services, and the Partnership for Healthy Pathways are co-presenting these workshops, which will be available throughout the year in Westborough and neighboring towns. These workshops are offered free of charge. The training is about 8 hours long and consists of some training and some breakouts into small groups to practice the skills.

Please call 508-556-6173 with questions or comments, or to request a training to be held at your location.