Youth Mental Health First Aid Class Comes to New Glarus
Monday, September 19th
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Our youth need our help. A new CDC survey shows significant increases in high school students reporting persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, considering suicide or attempting suicide over the past decade – trends that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since the pandemic began, more than two out of five students (44%) reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness that caused them to stop doing usual activities. About one in five seriously considered suicide, and nearly one in 10 attempted suicide.
Alongside this jarring news, the survey also reported that students who felt they could turn to someone at school were significantly less likely to report poor mental health during the pandemic. Research shows that having caring adults outside the family who serve as mentors and role models can serve as an important protective factor for children. This connection underscores the importance of Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA).
YMHFA, which speaks to adults who work or live with children and youth, is structured around the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Action Plan (ALGEE):
• Approach and assess for risk of suicide or harm.
• Listen non-judgmentally.
• Give reassurance and information.
• Encourage appropriate professional help.
• Encourage self-help and other support strategies.
Youth Mental health First Aid teaches adults who are in the lives of middle and high school kids how to notice and respond to mental health signs and symptoms from early signs, to worsening and crisis situations. We have opportunities for discussion and while it is a tough subject, it is an engaging class.
Your instructors for this all-day class will be Ashlee Glowacki, Child and Youth Therapist with Vitality Youth in Monroe, and Bridget Mouchon with the Green County Extension office. Participants will receive a comprehensive manual, an excellent evidence-based training, lunch, and will receive a certificate of completion.
The class will be held from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., on Monday, September 19, 2022, at the New Glarus Village Hall in the Community Room. To register, please call (608) 328-9440 or register online at https://forms.gle/MASQYMHjwr7p3yvr6.
