Youth Mental Health First Aid Class Offered in Woodbury

WOODBURY - The nationally recognized Youth Mental Health First Aid Training certification program will be offered from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on two consecutive Saturday mornings, July 23 and 30, at the Woodbury Firehouse, 25 Quassuk Rd.

There is no charge for this program and the public is invited to participate.

Youth Mental Health First Aid Training is an evidence-based program designed to help prepare adults and teen leaders to recognize and address mental health problems among youth and adolescents.

YMHFA Training is appropriate for anyone working, volunteering or interacting with youth ages 12 to 18. The eight-hour certification class teaches participants how to differentiate between typical and challenging adolescent characteristics and behaviors, recognize the signs and symptoms of common mental illnesses and substance use disorders, de-escalate crisis situations safely and initiate timely referrals to mental health, substance abuse and other resources available in the community.

Through their participation, Youth Mental Health First Aiders will feel better prepared to understand the prevalence of various mental health disorders and reduce the stigma of mental health challenges in their communities.

Made possible through federal grant funding provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, YMHFA training is designed for those who do not have advanced education or training in the mental health profession.

Participants come from all educational and professional backgrounds with the commonality of a desire to help recognize and address mental health problems among youth. Coaches, teachers, paraprofessionals, youth group leaders, scout leaders, parents, faith-based communities, police officers, camp counselors, nurses and first responders are among the thousands already trained across the country.

Student leaders in grades 11 and 12 are also eligible for certification.

Participants must attend all eight hours in order to receive certification. First aiders will receive a comprehensive 212-page resource guidebook developed to provide easy access to helpful youth mental health information.

Coffee and light refreshments will be served. Participants may bring their own lunch.

Training is provided by Education Connection. Space is limited and registration is required by contacting Abby Peklo at Education Connection at peklo@educationconnection.org or 860-567-0863.