Mental Health First Aid is an international evidence-based education program proven to be effective in teaching adults how to recognize and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges. Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) 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 substance use 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 ADHD), and eating disorders.

Course workbook is provided

Date: October 25

Time: 8am-5pm

Location: Cornhusker Council, Outdoor Education Center

Cost: $20 (covers a continental breakfast and lunch)

Instructor Bio:

Kristi Lange is a licensed clinical social worker, licensed mental health practitioner, and a provisionally licensed alcohol and drug counselor. She has been working within the mental health field for more than 10 years. She currently serves as a social worker on the LPS Threat Assessment Team. Kristi also serves on the HopeLNK Suicide Prevention Coalition. She has been teaching Youth Mental Health First Aid courses for the last 4 years.