APS News Release

Youth Mental Health First Aid Training

APS is hosting a Youth Mental Health First Aid Training for all staff and parents or guardians. Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in youth. This 6-hour training gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to children and adolescents (ages 6-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care

One in five youth ages 13 to 18 lives with a mental health condition. That means in a class of 25, five students are impacted. That’s why it’s so important for all adults working in the school setting to take Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA).

Similar to first-aid and CPR, Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches participants to identify, understand and respond to youth developing a mental health challenge or crisis. This 6-hour training gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to reach out and provide initial help to children and adolescents (ages 6-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and connect them to the appropriate care.

Participants who successfully complete the course are certified by the National Council for Behavioral Health in Youth Mental Health First Aid.

Who:  Any adult that interacts with youth.
Where: Virtual. Participate from the comfort of your own home! Cost: FREE!
How: Register In Frontline, search YMHFA.
When: First Aiders will complete a 2-hour, self-paced online class, then participate in a live 4 to 5-hour Instructor-led video conference on one of the following dates:

  • March 26: 10am-2pm (Student Services Staff Only)
  • April 12: 10am-2pm
  • May 13: 4pm-8pm
  • May 25: 4pm-8pm
  • June 2: 4pm-8pm

Registration
Space is LIMITED to first 8 registrants on each date! How to Register?

APS Staff: In Frontline, search YMHFA.
Community Members/Parents: Email jennifer.Lambdin@apsva.us (indicate name and date interested in the course)

Once registered, information will be provided to complete the 2-hour, self-paced online class. This class MUST be completed at least 3 days prior to the live Instructor-led video conference training.