Westborough – The Westborough Public Library, Westborough Youth & Family Services, and Westborough High School invite interested community members to become certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid Saturday, March 19, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Forbes Municipal Building, 45 W. Main St.
Youth Mental Health (YMH) First Aid is an eight-hour certification course designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to support adolescents (age 12-18) who may be experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge.
The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a five-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 attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), and eating disorders. As certified YMH first aiders, adults will possess a strong awareness of the mental health challenges facing youth in the community and greater confidence in their ability to approach and assist young people.
There is no charge for the course, thanks to a grant received by Shrewsbury Youth & Family Services, whose staff is offering the training in Shrewsbury and neighboring communities. Participants are asked to dress comfortably as this is an interactive training. A 30-45 minute break will be included for lunch. Some snacks will be provided, but feel free to bring your own food or drink.
To register, go to http://enterprise.questionpro.com/a/TakeSurvey?id=4426276. For questions, contact Justin Mussler at 508-556-6173 or email [email protected].
