Understanding and Supporting Youth Mental Health First Aid
Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it is often overlooked and not given the attention it deserves, especially when it comes to young people. Youth mental health first aid is a concept that aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental health in young people and equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to support young people experiencing mental health difficulties.
It is estimated that 1 in 6 young people in the UK will
experience a mental health problem in any given week, with depression and
anxiety being the most common issues. Furthermore, half of all lifetime cases
of mental illness start by the age of 14, highlighting the need for early
intervention and support.
Youth
mental health first aid training teaches individuals how to recognize
the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in young people, and how
to provide initial help and support. The training also covers how to signpost
young people to professional help and support if needed.
The Benefits of Youth Mental Health First Aid
Promotes Mental Health Awareness: The training raises
awareness about the importance of mental health in young people, and the common
mental health problems they may face.
Encourages Early Intervention: By recognizing the
signs and symptoms of mental health problems, individuals trained in youth
mental health first aid can provide early support and intervention, which can
improve the chances of recovery.
Increases Confidence in Supporting Young People: The
training provides individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to support
young people experiencing mental health difficulties, increasing their
confidence in providing help.
Signposts Young People to Professional Help: Youth
mental health first aid training covers how to signpost young people to
professional help and support if needed, ensuring they receive the help and support
they need.
Supports the Mental Well-being of Young People: By
providing initial help and support, individuals trained in youth mental health
first aid can improve the mental well-being of young people, helping them to
recover from mental health problems and lead happier, healthier lives.
What Does Youth Mental Health First Aid Training Involve?
Youth
mental health first aid Course training typically involves a one or
two-day course, delivered by a trained instructor. The course covers a range of
topics, including:
Understanding Mental Health: Participants learn about
mental health and the common mental health problems young people may
experience, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and self-harm.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Mental Health
Problems: Participants learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of
common mental health problems in young people, and how to approach young people
experiencing difficulties.
Providing Initial Help: Participants learn how to
provide initial help and support to young people experiencing mental health
difficulties, including how to listen, support, and signpost to professional
help.
Signposting to Professional Help: Participants learn
about the different types of professional help and support available for young
people experiencing mental health difficulties, and how to signpost them to the
help they need.
Self-Care for Mental Health First Aiders:
Participants learn about the importance of self-care for mental health first
aiders, and how to maintain their own mental well-being while supporting young
people.
Who Can Benefit from Youth Mental Health First Aid
Training?
Youth mental health first aid training is suitable for
anyone who works with young people or is interested in supporting the mental
well-being of young people, including:
v
Teachers and educational staff
v
Youth workers and youth leaders
v
Parents and carers
v
Healthcare professionals
v
Social workers and support
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