Given our nation’s youth mental health crisis, adults who live or work with youth, need to know how to help a young person who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. The Coalition has been teaching Youth Mental Health First Aid in Washington County since 2015. This groundbreaking skills-based course teaches adults how to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health or substance use challenges in young people. Similar to physical First Aid and CPR, Youth Mental Health First Aid helps you assist someone experiencing a crisis until professional assistance is obtained or the crisis is resolved.
1 in 5 youth experience a mental health challenge, but many are reluctant to seek help or don’t know where to turn for care. Unlike physical conditions, symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges can be difficult to see. Friends and family members may find it hard to know when and how to step in. As a result, those in need of mental health services often do not receive care until it is too late.
Youth Mental Health First Aiders learn a 5-step Action Plan that guides them through the process of reaching out and offering appropriate support. This blended course is taught in 3 segments. Participants complete a 2-hour on-line self-study and then come together for two 2.5 hour instructor-led ZOOM sessions planned on Thursdays, March 26th and April 2nd, 2026 from 6:00-8:30 PM. Like CPR, participants who complete the course are certified for 3 years.
To sign up for the course: Send an email to wccc@washcokids.org
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