Youth Mental Health First Aid

Youth Mental Health First Aid gives adults the knowledge and confidence to recognise and respond when a young person may be developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis.

Adults who work with or support young people often notice changes in behaviour, mood, relationships or participation before they understand what those changes may mean. This course provides a structured and evidence-based approach to offering initial assistance and encouraging appropriate professional support.

What participants will learn

Participants develop practical skills to:

• Recognise possible signs of mental health concerns in young people

• Understand factors that can affect youth mental health

• Approach a young person and begin a supportive conversation

• Listen and communicate without judgement

• Provide appropriate initial assistance

• Encourage involvement from trusted adults and professional supports

• Respond to selected mental health crisis situations

• Understand confidentiality, safeguarding and role boundaries

The training focuses on supportive early action. It does not teach participants to diagnose, counsel or provide clinical treatment.

Who this training suits

Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed for adults who work with, care for or regularly support young people, including:

• Teachers and education staff

• Youth and community workers

• Coaches and activity leaders

• Health and support workers

• Parents and carers

• Employees in services involving young people and families

Delivery and accreditation

The course is delivered according to current Mental Health First Aid Australia requirements. Eligible participants may complete the associated accreditation assessment, subject to those requirements.

Face-to-face delivery is available for groups in Dubbo and across regional NSW. Approved blended or online components may be available depending on the selected course format.

Organisational benefits

The course can help organisations establish a more confident and consistent approach to recognising youth mental health concerns, beginning appropriate conversations and connecting young people with further assistance.