General Description
Youth Mental Health First Aid Training really makes a difference.
Approximately 20% of Australians experience a common mental illness each year. Completing a Youth MHFA Course will help you to develop the skills to assist an adolescent who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves, using a practical, evidence-based action plan.
There will be a particular focus on how to respond to common mental illnesses including depression, anxiety problems, psychosis and substance use problems. You’ll learn how to help someone to access the support they might need for the successful management of symptoms as part of their recovery journey, including school based supports.
What’s more, you’ll be able to actively reduce stigma in your school community, by responding appropriately to myths and misunderstandings about mental illness.
The MHFA courses are based on evidence of what is best practice to support someone. This evidence has been developed in partnership with the University of Melbourne, through developing guidelines that cover a number of mental health problems, crises and in different contexts.
Developing mental health problems covered:
- Depression and anxiety
- Psychosis
- Substance use problems
- Eating disorders
Mental health crisis situations covered:
- Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
- Non-suicidal self-injury (deliberate self-harm)
- Panic attacks
- Traumatic events
- Severe effects of drug and alcohol abuse
- Severe psychotic states
- Aggressive behaviours
The Youth Mental Health First Aid Course is a 14-Hour workshop that is conducted in two 7-hour sessions over two days. Once completed, participants will be given the (optional) opportunity to complete an online Accreditation Exam in order to become an accredited Youth MHFAider for 3 years. There is no additional cost to complete the exam. Participants who choose not to complete the exam will be provided with a Certificate of Completion.
Audience
Any teacher looking to build their knowledge, skills and confidence in how to assist an adolescent experiencing mental illness.
Teaching Standards
4.4.2 Proficient Level - Create and maintain supportive and safe learning environments - Maintain student safety: Ensure students’ wellbeing and safety within school by implementing school and/ or system, curriculum and legislative requirements
Are you in NSW?
This course may contribute towards Elective PD hours. Visit NESA website for more details.