Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches adults how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in youth. This virtual 5.5-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.

The course will teach you how to apply the ALGEE  action plan:

• Assess for risk of suicide or harm

• Listen nonjudgmentally

• Give reassurance and information

• Encourage appropriate professional help

• Encourage self-help and other support strategies

This course is open to participants who live or work in Missouri. The course is valued at $170 per person but is being offered to you at no cost through a grant.

The course requires advanced registration. Participants must register 10 days in advance. 

 - Participants must complete 2-hours of self-paced training at least 3 days prior to the course date.

- The 5.5-hour portion of the course is a small group-interactive training. Participants will join via Zoom and should be prepared to be present and actively engaged for the whole course. 

For ADA accommodations, contact: Tina Edholm at Edholmc@missouri.edu or call (660) 882-5661 at least 72 hours prior to the start of class. 

A minimum of 5 participants are required for the class to be held.

Technology Requirements:

- Computer with microphone and speakers

- HD webcam

Cost: Free

This program is fully supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) under sponsored Award #2020-70028-32728.