Youth Mental Health Course

Mental, Emotional, and Social Health (MESH) training is a proactive initiative by Scouting America designed to equip camp staff and adult leaders with the tools to support the holistic well-being of participants. Recognizing that the rigors of outdoor adventure and long-term residency can create unique stressors, the MESH curriculum focuses on identifying behavioral changes that may indicate a Scout is struggling. By integrating these practices into staff development, councils aim to move beyond physical safety alone, fostering an environment where mental and emotional needs are prioritized with the same urgency as a physical injury.
The training utilizes the U-S-A Model—Understand the behaviors, Speak and Support, and Act and Advocate—to provide a clear, actionable framework for intervention. Staff are trained to recognize signs of anxiety, social isolation, or more serious crises, while also learning essential self-care techniques to manage their own stress during the demanding summer season. Ultimately, MESH training serves to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in Scouting, ensuring that every participant has access to a supportive, empathetic community that is "Prepared" for the complexities of modern youth development.





