Youth Mental Health First Aid

Youth Mental Health First Aid is a training program for teachers, school staff, and other adults who work with students. The course teaches adults how to recognize when a student may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis and how to provide appropriate support until professional help is available.

What Participants Learn

The course covers topics such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Substance use
  • Eating disorders
  • Attention-related concerns
  • Warning signs of psychosis

Participants also learn how to help a young person experiencing:

  • Panic attacks
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Selfharm
  • Intense emotional distress
  • Reactions to traumatic events
  • Overdose or withdrawal

The class includes handson practice using a simple 5step action plan, making it easier for adults to respond confidently in reallife situations.

Adapted from MentalHealthFirstAid.org