Duchesne High students receive mental health training

Eleven students from Duchesne High School were bussed to Roosevelt to attended a Youth Mental Health First Aid class at Northeastern Counseling Center.

Youth Mental Health First Aid USA is an eight-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.

It all began when Emily Blanchard worked on a project for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. FCCLA is an organization that aims to help youth in public and private schools with family bonds, careers and participation in the community.

"This is the first time that Northeastern Counseling Center has filled the Youth Mental Health First Aid class with youth participants" states Robin Hatch, Prevention Coordinator, "It was an interesting class where we saw differences in the responses from our adult participants".

Participants were Zane Butler, Bridger T. Potter, Travis Hendricks, Ben Price, Emily Blanchard, Samantha Lupoid, Tyler Clayborn, Kendra Johnson, Shalae VanTassell, Cassidy Smith. Adult advisors were Ellen Hill and Eric Jessen.

For information regarding Mental Health First Aid classes, contact Hatch, 435-725-6334.