What is YMHFA Training?

Mental health first aid is the help provided to someone who is developing a mental health problem, has a worsening of an existing mental health problem or is in a mental health crisis. The first aid is given until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves. Mental health first aid strategies are taught in evidence-based training programs authored by Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Australia and conducted by accredited MHFA Instructors across Australia.

The Youth Mental Health First Aid Course is for adults supporting, working or living with adolescents (those aged between 12 and 18 years), however, the course can be relevant for those helping people who are a little younger or older. This course is particularly suitable for parents/caregivers, teachers, sports coaches, trainers, and youth workers.

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What the course covers

The course teaches adults how to assist adolescents who are developing a mental health problem or are in a mental health crisis. Course participants learn about adolescent development, the signs and symptoms of the common and disabling mental health problems in young people, where and how to get help when a young person is developing a mental illness, what sort of help has been shown by research to be effective, and how to provide first aid in a crisis situation.

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Format

This is a 14 hour course, which can be delivered as either:

 - A 2-day training package (7 hours per day), OR

 - As 4 Separate modules (3.5 hours each)

Course participants receive a copy of the Youth MHFA Manual to keep and a Certificate of Completion.

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Who can attend a course?

Any interested adult can attend, though please note this course is not for adolescents to attend. This course is also not a therapy or support group, rather it is an education course to learn how to give first aid to others.

Get in contact today

Get in touch today to find out how we can better equip you, your team, workplace, club or organisation to support young people to navigate their experience of a mental illness or mental health crisis.