VIRGINIA BEACH – If you work with, or have an interest in, youth mental health, Virginia Beach Behavioral Health and Wellness Prevention Services has a free opportunity for you to learn.
The Youth Mental Health First Aid USA training is being offered Monday at the Virginia Beach Convention Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Although the course is open to anyone, seating is limited and the training is recommended for those who regularly have contact with young people ages 12-18 years, including teachers, coaches, social workers, and church youth workers.
The course focuses on risk factors and warning signs of a variety of mental health challenges that are common among adolescents, to include anxiety, depression, psychosis, eating disorders, AD/HD, disruptive behaviors, and substance use disorders.
Participants will learn how to be supportive of a youth showing signs and symptoms of any of these disorders using a five-step action plan involving assessing for risks; listening non-judgmentally; giving reassurance and information; encouraging appropriate professional help; encouraging self-help and other support strategies.
The training does not include therapy or counseling, nor does it teach diagnosis.
Reservations are required. For information or to register, call Vanessa Harvey at 757-385-0803, or contact her via email at vharvey@vbgov.com.
