Youth Mental Health First Aid Training

Saturday, August 15th from 9 AM to 5 PM

A certified mental health professional from the Prince William County Community Services Office will lead this course. Any adult who works with youth in our community can join, and you do not need to be registered with Scouting America.

The U.S. Surgeon General reports that poor mental health is a major cause of disability and negative life outcomes for young people. Recently, issues like anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts have become more common. As leaders and mentors, we need to be ready to notice when a young person is struggling and know how to help.

Mental Health First Aid teaches adults how to spot, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges. As with regular first aid, the aim is to help, support, and guide the person to receive the right professional help.

As volunteers who work with youth, we are used to handling physical injuries, from small cuts to serious emergencies. We need to be just as ready to help with mental health concerns, whether it is early signs of distress or more serious issues that put a young person at risk.

In this course, you will learn how to:

Recognize signs and symptoms of common mental health challenges in youth.

Respond effectively if a young person may be at risk of harm to themselves or others.

Help prevent concerns from worsening.

Offer initial support, reassurance, and encouragement.

Connect youth with the right professional resources and support systems.

Course Requirements:

Complete a required self-paced online module before attending the in-person session.

Take part in the full in-person training on August 15.

Certification:

Your Youth Mental Health First Aid certification will be valid for two years after you complete the course.

Cost:

Free. Course materials are included.

Additional Information:

There will be a 30-minute lunch break around midday. Please bring your own lunch.

Location:

14391 Minnieville Road.

Woodbridge, VA 22193

First United Presbyterian Church of Dale City