Description

The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Supporting Youth course, developed with input from educators, caregivers, and mental health experts, is designed for adults who work with or care for young people aged 12–24. It equips participants to recognize when a young person may be struggling with mental health or substance use issues, and to provide supportive, evidence-based responses until professional help is available. 

MHFA Youth Course Description (NCMW)

The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Supporting Youth course, developed with input from educators, caregivers, and mental health experts, is designed for adults who work with or care for young people aged 12–18. It equips participants to recognize when a young person may be struggling with mental health or substance use issues, and to provide supportive, evidence-based responses until professional help is available. 

The course aims to: 

• Help adults identify signs of declining mental well-being or a mental health/substance use crisis in youth.
• Provide practical tools to foster understanding, build trust, and promote resilience in young people. 

Target Audience: parents/guardians, educators, teachers, school staff, coaches, youth group leaders, camp counselors, and adults who work with or care for youth 

Key Skills Learned:

• Recognizing signs of mental health or substance use problems in youth 
• Initiating supportive conversations Connecting youth with appropriate professional and peer supports 
• Using the ALGEES action plan in both crisis and non-crisis scenarios 
• Practicing self-care after assisting in a crisis

Why It Matters With 1 in 5 teens and young adults living with a mental health condition and 50% of all mental illnesses beginning by age 14, early recognition and support are critical. This course prepares participants to be proactive, stigma-free, and effective first responders for youth mental health challenges.