Yancey County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officers attended Youth Mental Health First Aid training.
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 help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. 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 AD/HD), and eating disorders.
“Our goal is to make sure all of the young people we encounter, have the best chance to receive the help needed when they are in a mental health crisis,” said Sheriff Shane Hilliard. “We are not doctors, but we can have the knowledge and insights into the signs and behaviors that could point to a young person having a mental health crisis. Our resource officers can connect with them and give them some ideas and resources that can help.”
To find a course or contact a Mental Health First Aid Instructor in your area, visit MHFA.org or email Hello@MentalHealthFirstAid.org.
